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Zhang Y, Tang N, Zhou H, Zhu Y. Surface engineered multifunctional nano-systems for localised drug delivery against thyroid cancer: A review of current practices. Biomed Pharmacother 2024; 176:116840. [PMID: 38820975 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2024.116840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2024] [Revised: 05/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/26/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024] Open
Abstract
Thyroid cancer, the most prevalent cancer of the endocrine system and cervical region, has experienced a significant increase in incidence over recent decades. Nanomedicine has fundamentally revolutionized cancer treatment, particularly through the development of multifunctional nano-therapeutics. The progress in this field has been facilitated by the distinctive properties of nanomaterials, such as their capacity to perform several functions, be modified, and offer various detection methods. These features allow for non-invasive and practical diagnostic techniques through versatile imaging. Surface engineering plays a pivotal role in the design of multifunctional nano-systems for localized drug delivery against thyroid cancer. Nano-systems can be customized via surface modification techniques, such as functionalization with targeting ligands and inclusion of therapeutic drugs. This customization allows the nano-systems to specifically target cancer cells while reducing the impact on non-target cells. As a result, bovine serum albumin-coated nanostructures have emerged as powerful diagnostic and targeting nanosystems for thyroid cancer. This targeted strategy enhances the effectiveness of cancer treatment while reducing overall body toxicity. This comprehensive review aims to provide an extensive overview of the latest advancements in surface-engineered nanoparticle-based approaches for both diagnosing and treating thyroid cancer. It highlights the promising research endeavors aimed at creating novel and effective multifunctional nanomedicine for localized delivery to thyroid cancer sites. The review examines different nanomedicines that have been developed for cancer treatment and diagnosis. It also analyzes the current trends, future possibilities, and obstacles in this rapidly advancing sector. By synthesizing the current state of knowledge on surface-engineered multifunctional nano-systems, this review contributes to a better understanding of their potential applications in thyroid cancer treatment and paves the way for future research directions in this promising field of nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yiyi Zhang
- Department of Endocrinology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China.
| | - Nie Tang
- Department of Endocrinology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China.
| | - Hui Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China.
| | - Ying Zhu
- Department of Endocrinology, Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital, School of Medicine, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, Sichuan 610072, China.
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Cherchir F, Oueslati I, Mouelhi Y, Talbi E, Feki M, Yazidi M, Chihaoui M. Levothyroxine liquid oral substitution as an alternative treatment for refractory hypothyroidism due to gastrointestinal malabsorption: A case report. SAGE Open Med Case Rep 2023; 11:2050313X231209229. [PMID: 37927364 PMCID: PMC10623934 DOI: 10.1177/2050313x231209229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Tablets of levothyroxine (LT4) are the most used form for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Some patients may present with refractory hypothyroidism despite a high daily LT4 dose. We report the case of a 49-year-old woman who was admitted to our department for refractory hypothyroidism. She was treated with 300 μg oral LT4 tablets daily (3.9 μg/kg/day). Despite good compliance and regular intake of high doses of LT4, she had persistent symptoms of hypothyroidism and a thyroid-stimulating hormone level of 92.4 mIU/L. LT4 absorption test was consistent with the diagnosis of malabsorption. Etiological investigations revealed Helicobacter pylori gastritis. Helicobacter infection was adequately treated, but symptoms of hypothyroidism and elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone persisted. Increased LT4 doses (400 μg) failed to normalize thyroid-stimulating hormone levels. Thus, she was put on LT4 liquid form at a dose of 80 drops/day per day (400 µg). Two weeks later, she presented with clinical and biological improvement with a normal free thyroxine level of 1.14 ng/dL. Patients with gastrointestinal disorders may present with refractory hypothyroidism despite increasing doses of LT4. Switching to liquid formulation may resolve this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faten Cherchir
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Department of Endocrinology, La Rabta University Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Ibtissem Oueslati
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Department of Endocrinology, La Rabta University Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Yasmine Mouelhi
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Department of Endocrinology, La Rabta University Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Emna Talbi
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Laboratory of Biochemistry, La Rabta University Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Moncef Feki
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Laboratory of Biochemistry, La Rabta University Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Meriem Yazidi
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Department of Endocrinology, La Rabta University Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Melika Chihaoui
- Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Department of Endocrinology, La Rabta University Hospital, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis, Tunisia
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Mustafa M, Ali E, McGowan A, McCabe L, Hegedüs L, Attanasio R, Nagy EV, Papini E, Perros P, Moran C. Use of Thyroid Hormones in Hypothyroid and Euthyroid Patients: A THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Irish Endocrine Society. Ir J Med Sci 2023; 192:2179-2187. [PMID: 36482281 PMCID: PMC10522726 DOI: 10.1007/s11845-022-03235-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Replacement of thyroid hormones (TH) with Levothyroxine (LT4) is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism, however, there are aspects of treatment where uncertainties exist and practice varies. Factors influencing initiation and choice of TH replacement may impact patient satisfaction, safety, and health care costs. METHODS The aim of the study was to examine the attitudes of Irish endocrinologists regarding the treatment of hypothyroid and euthyroid patients with TH. Members of the Irish Endocrine Society (IES) were invited to participate in an online survey. RESULTS Forty-eight invitations were sent, and 39 (81.3%) participants responded. All respondents favoured LT4 tablet therapy for treatment of hypothyroidism, but 20.5% prescribed combination therapy (LT4 and liothyronine), and 13% regularly used desiccated thyroid extract. A significant proportion (51%) might prescribe TH in euthyroid patients; 41% for thyroid auto-antibody positive women seeking pregnancy, 18% for goitre and 5% for unexplained fatigue. Many (38%) consider combination therapy in patients with persistent symptoms. Respondents reported seeing LT4 treated patients with persistent symptomatology more frequently and perceive psychosocial factors and comorbidities to be the most common reasons for such symptoms. CONCLUSION LT4 tablets are the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism in Ireland. Approximately a third of Irish endocrinologists either regularly use, or would consider, liothyronine for hypothyroid patients. A significant proportion would give TH to euthyroid individuals in specific circumstances. The prescription of TH amongst Irish endocrinologists was generally in keeping with recommended practice, and areas where practice deviated from guidance were typically where evidence was conflicting or insufficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamad Mustafa
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Elsheikh Ali
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Anne McGowan
- Robert Graves Institute, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Laura McCabe
- Pharmacy Department, Tallaght University Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Roberto Attanasio
- Scientific Committee Associazione Medici Endocrinologi, Milan, Italy
| | - Endre V. Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Opsedale Regina Apostolorum, Rome, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK
| | - Carla Moran
- Diabetes & Endocrinology Section, Beacon Hospital, Sandyford, Dublin, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
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Martínez-Montoro JI, Doulatram-Gamgaram VK, Olveira G, Valdés S, Fernández-García JC. Management of thyroid dysfunction and thyroid nodules in the ageing patient. Eur J Intern Med 2023; 116:16-26. [PMID: 37394383 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejim.2023.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/10/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023]
Abstract
Thyroid dysfunction is a common endocrine disorder in the general population, with a reported prevalence of 10-15%. However, this rate is even higher in older adults, with an estimated prevalence of ≈25% in some populations. Since elderly patients usually present more comorbidities than younger individuals, thyroid dysfunction may carry a synergistic negative health impact, mainly due to increased cardiovascular disease risk. Moreover, thyroid dysfunction in the elderly can be more difficult to diagnose due to its subtle or even asymptomatic clinical presentation, and the interpretation of thyroid function tests may be affected by drugs that interfere with thyroid function or by the coexistence of several diseases. On the other hand, thyroid nodules are also a prevalent condition in older adults, and its incidence increases with age. The assessment and management of thyroid nodules in the ageing patient should take into account several factors, as risk stratification, thyroid cancer biology, patient´s overall health, comorbidities, treatment preferences, and goals of care. In this review article, we summarize the current knowledge on the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and therapeutic management of thyroid dysfunction in elderly patients and we also review how to identify and manage thyroid nodules in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- José Ignacio Martínez-Montoro
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Virgen de la Victoria University Hospital, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)-Plataforma Bionand, Faculty of Medicine, University of Málaga, 29010 Málaga, Spain
| | - Viyey Kishore Doulatram-Gamgaram
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Regional University Hospital of Malaga, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)/Plataforma Bionand, Malaga, Spain
| | - Gabriel Olveira
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Regional University Hospital of Malaga, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)/Plataforma Bionand, Malaga, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, Departamento de Medicina y Dermatología, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - Sergio Valdés
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Regional University Hospital of Malaga, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)/Plataforma Bionand, Malaga, Spain; Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Diabetes y Enfermedades Metabólicas Asociadas (CIBERDEM), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Spain
| | - José Carlos Fernández-García
- Department of Endocrinology and Nutrition, Regional University Hospital of Malaga, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de Málaga (IBIMA)/Plataforma Bionand, Malaga, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, Departamento de Medicina y Dermatología, University of Málaga, Málaga, Spain.
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Cassemiro JF, Ilera V, Batalles S, Reyes A, Nagy EV, Papini E, Perros P, Hegedüs L, Ramos HE. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: a 2022 THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Latin American Thyroid Society (LATS). Thyroid Res 2023; 16:40. [PMID: 37773072 PMCID: PMC10542243 DOI: 10.1186/s13044-023-00182-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Inconsistencies in the medical management of hypothyroidism have been reported between endocrinologists in different countries. This study aimed to identify the attitudes of Latin America thyroid specialists towards the use of thyroid hormones. METHODS Online survey of members of the Latin America Thyroid Society. RESULTS 81/446 (18.2%) completed the questionnaire. Levothyroxine (LT4) was the initial treatment of choice for all respondents. 56.8% would consider LT4 use in biochemically euthyroid patients: infertile women with elevated anti-thyroid antibodies (46.9%), resistant depression (17.3%) and growing goiter (12%). Most respondents preferred tablets (39.5%) over liquid formulations (21.0%) or soft gel capsules (22.2%) and would not consider switching formulations in patients with persistent symptoms. 39.5% would never use LT4 + liothyronine (LT3) combination therapy in symptomatic euthyroid patients, due to low quality evidence for benefit. 60.5% reported that persistence of symptoms despite normal TSH is rare (below 5% of patients) and its prevalence has been stable over the last five years. Psychosocial factors (84.0%), comorbidities (86.4%) and the patient unrealistic expectation (72.8%) were considered the top three explanations for this phenomenon. CONCLUSION LT4 tablets is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism. A significant proportion of respondents would use LT4 in some groups of euthyroid individuals, contrasting the recommendations of the major clinical practice guideline indications. LT4 + LT3 combination treatment in euthyroid symptomatic patients was considered by nearly 50%. Practices based on weak or absent evidence included use of thyroid hormones for euthyroid subjects by 56.8% of respondents and use of LT4 + LT3 treatment by 60.5% of respondents for patients with persistent symptoms. In contrast to many European countries, LATS respondents report a low and unchanged proportion of dissatisfied patients over the last five years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica F Cassemiro
- Department of Bioregulation, Health & Science Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Avenida Reitor Miguel Calmon, S/N. Vale do Canela. Room 325, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Veronica Ilera
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Ramos Mejía, Caba, Argentina
| | | | - Adriana Reyes
- Department of Endocrinology, Hospital Ramos Mejía, Caba, Argentina
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Helton Estrela Ramos
- Department of Bioregulation, Health & Science Institute, Federal University of Bahia, Avenida Reitor Miguel Calmon, S/N. Vale do Canela. Room 325, Salvador, Bahia, Brazil.
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Rose SR, Wassner AJ, Wintergerst KA, Yayah-Jones NH, Hopkin RJ, Chuang J, Smith JR, Abell K, LaFranchi SH, Wintergerst KA, Yayah Jones NH, Hopkin RJ, Chuang J, Smith JR, Abell K, LaFranchi SH, Wintergerst KA, Bethin KE, Brodsky JL, Jelley DH, Marshall BA, Mastrandrea LD, Lynch JL, Laskosz L, Burke LW, Geleske TA, Holm IA, Introne WJ, Jones K, Lyons MJ, Monteil DC, Pritchard AB, Smith Trapane PL, Vergano SA, Weaver K, Alexander AA, Cunniff C, Null ME, Parisi MA, Ralson SJ, Scott J, Spire P. Congenital Hypothyroidism: Screening and Management. Pediatrics 2023; 151:190308. [PMID: 36827521 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-060420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
ABSTRACT Untreated congenital hypothyroidism (CH) leads to intellectual disabilities. Prompt diagnosis by newborn screening (NBS) leading to early and adequate treatment results in grossly normal neurocognitive outcomes in adulthood. However, NBS for hypothyroidism is not yet established in all countries globally. Seventy percent of neonates worldwide do not undergo NBS.The initial treatment of CH is levothyroxine, 10 to 15 mcg/kg daily. The goals of treatment are to maintain consistent euthyroidism with normal thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxine in the upper half of the age-specific reference range during the first 3 years of life. Controversy remains regarding detection of thyroid dysfunction and optimal management of special populations, including preterm or low-birth weight infants and infants with transient or mild CH, trisomy 21, or central hypothyroidism.Newborn screening alone is not sufficient to prevent adverse outcomes from CH in a pediatric population. In addition to NBS, the management of CH requires timely confirmation of the diagnosis, accurate interpretation of thyroid function testing, effective treatment, and consistent follow-up. Physicians need to consider hypothyroidism in the face of clinical symptoms, even if NBS thyroid test results are normal. When clinical symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism are present (such as large posterior fontanelle, large tongue, umbilical hernia, prolonged jaundice, constipation, lethargy, and/or hypothermia), measurement of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxine is indicated, regardless of NBS results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Nana-Hawa Yayah-Jones
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Robert J Hopkin
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | | | - Katherine Abell
- Departments of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Wendy Novak Diabetes Center, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Norton Children's Hospital, Louisville, Kentucky.,Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Stephen H LaFranchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, Oregon
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7
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Rose SR, Wassner AJ, Wintergerst KA, Yayah-Jones NH, Hopkin RJ, Chuang J, Smith JR, Abell K, LaFranchi SH, Wintergerst KA, Yayah Jones NH, Hopkin RJ, Chuang J, Smith JR, Abell K, LaFranchi SH, Wintergerst KA, Bethin KE, Bruggeman B, Brodsky JL, Jelley DH, Marshall BA, Mastrandrea LD, Lynch JL, Laskosz L, Burke LW, Geleske TA, Holm IA, Introne WJ, Jones K, Lyons MJ, Monteil DC, Pritchard AB, Smith Trapane PL, Vergano SA, Weaver K, Alexander AA, C4unniff C, Null ME, Parisi MA, Ralson SJ, Scott J. Congenital Hypothyroidism: Screening and Management. Pediatrics 2023; 151:190311. [PMID: 36827523 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2022-060419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Untreated congenital hypothyroidism (CH) leads to intellectual disabilities. Newborn screening (NBS) for CH should be performed in all infants. Prompt diagnosis by NBS leading to early and adequate treatment results in grossly normal neurocognitive outcomes in adulthood. However, NBS for hypothyroidism is not yet practiced in all countries globally. Seventy percent of neonates worldwide do not undergo NBS. The recommended initial treatment of CH is levothyroxine, 10 to 15 mcg/kg daily. The goals of treatment are to maintain consistent euthyroidism with normal thyroid-stimulating hormone and with free thyroxine in the upper half of the age-specific reference range during the first 3 years of life. Controversy remains regarding the detection of thyroid dysfunction and optimal management of special populations, including preterm or low-birth-weight infants and infants with transient or mild CH, trisomy 21, or central hypothyroidism. NBS alone is not sufficient to prevent adverse outcomes from CH in a pediatric population. In addition to NBS, the management of CH requires timely confirmation of the diagnosis, accurate interpretation of thyroid function testing, effective treatment, and consistent follow-up. Physicians need to consider hypothyroidism in the face of clinical symptoms, even if NBS thyroid test results are normal. When clinical symptoms and signs of hypothyroidism are present (such as large posterior fontanelle, large tongue, umbilical hernia, prolonged jaundice, constipation, lethargy, and/or hypothermia), measurement of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and free thyroxine is indicated, regardless of NBS results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ari J Wassner
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Kupper A Wintergerst
- Departments of Pediatrics, Division of Endocrinology & Diabetes, Wendy Novak Diabetes Center, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Norton Children's Hospital, Louisville, Kentucky
| | | | | | | | - Jessica R Smith
- Division of Endocrinology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Katherine Abell
- Department of Pediatrics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio.,Division of Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri
| | - Stephen H LaFranchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Doernbecher Children's Hospital, Oregon Health & Sciences University, Portland, Oregon
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Stramazzo I, Capriello S, Antonelli A, Fallahi P, Centanni M, Virili C. Seeking optimization of LT4 treatment in patients with differentiated thyroid cancer. Hormones (Athens) 2022; 21:537-543. [PMID: 35655116 PMCID: PMC9712340 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-022-00376-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Levothyroxine sodium (LT4) is the mainstay treatment to replace thyroid hormonal production in thyroidectomized patients, but, depending on the aggressiveness of the cancer and on the risk of recurrence, patients with differentiated thyroid cancer may also be treated in a TSH-suppressive or semi-suppressive mode. The pathophysiological rationale for this LT4 treatment stems from the role of TSH, considered to be a growth factor for follicular cells, potentially inducing initiation or progression of follicular cell-derived thyroid cancer. Therefore, accurate tailoring of treatment, taking into account both patient characteristics (age and comorbidities) and risk of persistent/recurrent disease, is highly recommended. Furthermore, adjustments to traditional LT4 treatment should be made in thyroidectomized patients due to the lack of thyroidal contribution to whole body triiodothyronine (T3) concentration. Since LT4 exhibits a narrow therapeutic index and the side effects of over- and under-treatment could be deleterious, particularly in this category of patients, caution is required in dose individualization, in the mode of ingestion, and in potential pharmacological and other types of interference as well. Our aim was to analyze the current knowledge concerning LT4 dose requirements in patients with thyroid cancer according to different therapeutic approaches, taking into account a number of factors causing interference with LT4 efficacy. Specific mention is also made about the use of the novel LT4 formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Stramazzo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, ''Sapienza'' University of Rome, Latina, Italy
- Endocrine Unit, AUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Surgical, Medical and Molecular Pathology and Critical Area, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Translational Research and New Technologies in Medicine and Surgery, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco Centanni
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, ''Sapienza'' University of Rome, Latina, Italy.
- Endocrine Unit, AUSL Latina, Latina, Italy.
| | - Camilla Virili
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, ''Sapienza'' University of Rome, Latina, Italy
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9
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Marina M, Maglietta G, De Filpo G, Aloe R, Gnocchi C, Iezzi E, Caminiti C, Ceresini G. Levothyroxine-induced serum free thyroxine response following radioactive iodine administration in patients thyroidectomized for differentiated thyroid cancer: A randomized controlled trial. Endocrine 2022; 77:340-348. [PMID: 35751777 PMCID: PMC9325824 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-022-03110-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Patients undergoing thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC) may require 131-radioactive iodine (RAI) administration for remnant ablation or disease treatment. After ingestion, RAI resides within the gastrointestinal tract potentially leading to mucosal damage and abnormalities in the absorption of levothyroxine (LT4). The aim of this study was to evaluate whether serum FT4 peak, induced by a LT4 challenge, changes according to the LT4 formulation (solid or liquid) in both RAI and non-RAI-treated DTC patients. METHODS This was a monocentric controlled clinical trial, with a parallel two-groups (1:1) randomization of sequence of LT4 formulation. Patients received 200 mcg LT4 orally administered at 08:00 h, in both solid and liquid formulation, at one-week interval, at baseline and after 1, 3, and 6 months from RAI administration. At each time-point, circulating FT4 was evaluated both before LT4 assumption as well as after 1 and 3 h. FT4 increments were evaluated as area under the curve response (AUC). Analogous protocol with the same time-intervals was followed for non-RAI patients. RESULTS The trial included 29 consecutive DTC patients, nineteen of whom were submitted to RAI. In RAI subjects, we observed an overall significant reduction in serum FT4 increments with the most relevant decrease at the 1-month time-point, (FT4 AUC: 4.46 ± 0.72 (M ± SD) vs 4.07 ± 0.63 in baseline vs 1-month, P = 0.001) without any difference between the two LT4 formulations. No difference in serum FT4 AUC was found in non-RAI subjects. CONCLUSION LT4-induced serum FT4 responses are reduced following RAI administration in thyroidectomized DTC patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michela Marina
- SSD Medicina interna ad indirizzo onco-endocrinologico, Università di Parma - Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Maglietta
- UO Ricerca clinica ed epidemiologica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Giuseppina De Filpo
- SSD Medicina interna ad indirizzo onco-endocrinologico, Università di Parma - Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Rosalia Aloe
- SSD Biochimica ad elevata automazione, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Cecilia Gnocchi
- SSD Biochimica ad elevata automazione, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Elisa Iezzi
- UO Programmazione e Controllo di Gestione, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Caterina Caminiti
- UO Ricerca clinica ed epidemiologica, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - Graziano Ceresini
- SSD Medicina interna ad indirizzo onco-endocrinologico, Università di Parma - Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria di Parma, Parma, Italy.
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Paschou SA, Alevizaki M, Attanasio R, Hegedüs L, Nagy EV, Papini E, Perros P, Vryonidou A. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: a 2020 THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Hellenic Endocrine Society. Hormones (Athens) 2022; 21:103-111. [PMID: 34755283 DOI: 10.1007/s42000-021-00335-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate current practices of specialists in the use of thyroid hormone preparations in Greece as part of an ongoing international survey, namely THESIS-Treatment of Hypothyroidism in Europe by Specialists: an International Survey. METHODS An electronic link leading to an anonymized questionnaire was sent to all (n = 837) members of the Hellenic Endocrine Society. RESULTS In total, 501 respondents participated in the survey, though only part of the questionnaire was filled in by some participants. A total of 88.2% were endocrinologists and 57.9% worked in private practice. Levothyroxine (LT4) was the first-line choice (98.6%) for the treatment of hypothyroid patients. In total, 70.2% preferred LT4 soft-gel capsules for patients reporting intolerance to various foods. Soft-gel capsules were the preferred LT4 formulation for patients on generic LT4 and with unexplained poor biochemical control of hypothyroidism (66.3%) or inability to take LT4 fasted and separate from food/drink (68.3%). It was found that 48.4% would never use combined LT4 + LT3. However, 25% would use combination therapy for a short period in patients recovering from protracted hypothyroidism or in patients with normal serum TSH but persistent symptoms. Concerning euthyroid individuals, 31.9% considered treatment with thyroid hormones in infertile females with positive thyroid antibodies and 24.4% in patients with growing goiter. Selenium or iodine supplementation was used occasionally, mostly in patients with coexisting autoimmune thyroiditis. CONCLUSIONS LT4 tablets are the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism in Greece. Several conditions may lead to various other practices, some of which deviate from current evidence-based guidelines and need more scrutiny.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stavroula A Paschou
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Center, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Alevizaki
- Endocrine Unit and Diabetes Center, Department of Clinical Therapeutics, Alexandra Hospital, School of Medicine, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
| | - Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano, Rome, Italy
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - Andromachi Vryonidou
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Center, Hellenic Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece.
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Шепелькевич АП, Дыдышко ЮВ, Юреня ЕB, Лобашова ВЛ, Аттанасио Р, Хегедюс Л, Надь Э, Негро Р, Папини Э, Перрос П. [Features of the use of synthetic analogues of thyroid hormones: а 2020 THESIS* questionnaire survey of members of the Belarusian Public Medical Association of Endocrinology and Metabolism]. PROBLEMY ENDOKRINOLOGII 2021; 68:18-26. [PMID: 35262294 PMCID: PMC9112860 DOI: 10.14341/probl12828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Revised: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The standard treatment for hypothyroidism is levothyroxine (LT4), which in the Republic of Belarus is available in tablet form whereas liothyronine (LT3) is not registered, but patients can purchase them on their own abroad. AIM This study aimed to investigate Belarusian endocrinologists' attitude of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS An online survey was conducted, for which members of the Belarusian Medical Association of Endocrinology and Metabolism were invited by posting information in the group chat and by e-mail. The research period was from October 1 to December 26, 2020. 210 questionnaires were received, 146 of which were used. RESULTS The majority of participants, 145 (99.3%), indicated that they were using LT4 as the first-choice drug for the treatment hypothyroidism. Sixty-one (41.8%) doctors answered that LT3 + LT4 combination likely can be used in patients with long-term untreated hypothyroidism and 15 (10.3%) - in patients with persistent symptoms of hypothyroidism, despite biochemical euthyroidism on therapy LT4. Over half of the respondents 84 (57.5%) answered that thyroid hormone therapy was never indicated for euthyroid patients, but 50 (34.2%) would consider it for female infertility with high level of thyroid antibodies and 36 (24.7%) for simple goiter growing over time. In various conditions that could interfere with absorption of LT4, most responding Belarusian endocrinologists do not expect a significant difference with different formulations (tablets+"I do not expect major changes in different forms" vs. "soft gel capsules"+"liquid solution"; p <0.001). Persistent symptoms of hypothyroidism on the background of LT4 replacement therapy with the achievement of the target TSH can mainly be caused by psychosocial factors, concomitant diseases, unrealistic patient expectations, chronic fatigue syndrome, and the burden of chronic disease. CONCLUSION The method of choice of Belarusian endocrinologists in the treatment of hypothyroidism is LT4 replacement therapy, but the appointment of LT4 + LT3 combination therapy can be considered in certain clinical situations. As a rule, endocrinologists do not prescribe LT4 in patients with euthyroidism and do not expect a significant difference when using other forms of levothyroxine.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ю. В. Дыдышко
- Белорусский государственный медицинский университет;
Республиканский центр медицинской реабилитации и бальнеолечения
| | - Е. B. Юреня
- Минский городской клинический эндокринологический центр
| | - В. Л. Лобашова
- Республиканский центр медицинской реабилитации и бальнеолечения
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12
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Riis KR, Frølich JS, Hegedüs L, Negro R, Attanasio R, Nagy EV, Papini E, Perros P, Bonnema SJ. Use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients: A 2020 THESIS questionnaire survey of members of the Danish Endocrine Society. J Endocrinol Invest 2021; 44:2435-2444. [PMID: 33774809 PMCID: PMC8004561 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-021-01555-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The standard treatment of hypothyroidism is levothyroxine (LT4), which is available as tablets or soft-gel capsules in Denmark. This study aimed to investigate Danish endocrinologists' use of thyroid hormones in hypothyroid and euthyroid patients. METHODS An e-mail with an invitation to participate in an online survey investigating practices about substitution with thyroid hormones was sent to all members of the Danish Endocrine Society (DES). RESULTS Out of 488 eligible DES members, a total of 152 (31.2%) respondents were included in the analysis. The majority (94.1%) of responding DES members use LT4 as the treatment of choice. Other treatment options for hypothyroidism are also used, as 58.6% prescribe combination therapy with liothyronine (LT3) + LT4 in their clinical practice. LT4 + LT3 combination is preferred in patients with persistent symptoms of hypothyroidism despite biochemical euthyroidism on LT4 treatment. Over half of the respondents answered that thyroid hormone therapy is never indicated for euthyroid patients, but 42.1% will consider it for euthyroid infertile women with high antibody levels. In various conditions that could interfere with the absorption of LT4, most responding Danish endocrinologists prefer tablets and do not expect a significant difference when switching from one type of tablet formulation to another. CONCLUSION The treatment of choice for hypothyroidism is LT4. Combination therapy with LT4 + LT3 is considered for patients with persistent symptoms. Even in the presence of conditions affecting bioavailability, responding Danish endocrinologists prefer LT4 tablets rather than newer LT4 formulations, such as soft-gel capsules.
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Affiliation(s)
- K R Riis
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark.
| | - J S Frølich
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - L Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - R Negro
- Division of Endocrinology, V. Fazzi Hospital, Lecce, Italy
| | - R Attanasio
- IRCCS Orthopedic Institute Galeazzi, Endocrinology Service, Milan, Italy
| | - E V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - E Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Opsedale Regina Apostolorum, Rome, Italy
| | - P Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
| | - S J Bonnema
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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13
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Kaur N, Suryanarayanan R. Levothyroxine sodium pentahydrate tablets - formulation considerations. J Pharm Sci 2021; 110:3743-3756. [PMID: 34384799 DOI: 10.1016/j.xphs.2021.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Even though levothyroxine sodium pentahydrate tablets have been in the market since 1955, there continue to be recalls due to sub potency. We have comprehensively reviewed the factors affecting its stability in solid oral dosage forms. A compilation of marketed formulation compositions enabled the identification of the potential 'problem excipients'. Two excipient properties, hygroscopicity and microenvironmental acidity, appeared to be responsible for inducing drug instability. In drug products, depending on the formulation composition and storage conditions, the pentahydrate can dehydrate to highly reactive levothyroxine sodium monohydrate, or undergo salt disproportionation to the free acid form of the drug. The USP assay method (HPLC based) is insensitive to these different physical forms of the drug. The influence of physical form of levothyroxine on its chemical stability is incompletely understood. The USP has five product-specific dissolution tests reflecting the complexity in its evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Navpreet Kaur
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 9-177 WDH, 308 Harvard Street Southeast, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States
| | - Raj Suryanarayanan
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, 9-177 WDH, 308 Harvard Street Southeast, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55455, United States.
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Effraimidis G, Watt T, Feldt-Rasmussen U. Levothyroxine Therapy in Elderly Patients With Hypothyroidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:641560. [PMID: 33790867 PMCID: PMC8006441 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.641560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Levothyroxine (L-T4) treatment of overt hypothyroidism can be more challenging in elderly compared to young patients. The elderly population is growing, and increasing incidence and prevalence of hypothyroidism with age are observed globally. Elderly people have more comorbidities compared to young patients, complicating correct diagnosis and management of hypothyroidism. Most importantly, cardiovascular complications compromise the usual start dosage and upward titration of L-T4 due to higher risk of decompensating cardiac ischemia and -function. It therefore takes more effort and care from the clinician, and the maintenance dose may have to be lower in order to avoid a cardiac incidence. On the other hand, L-T4 has a beneficial effect on cardiac function by increasing performance. The clinical challenge should not prevent treating with L-T4 should the patient develop e.g., cardiac ischemia. The endocrinologist is obliged to collaborate with the cardiologist on prophylactic cardiac measures by invasive cardiac surgery or medical therapy against cardiac ischemic angina. This usually allows subsequent successful treatment. Management of mild (subclinical) hypothyroidism is even more complex. Prevalent comorbidities in the elderly complicate correct diagnosis, since many concomitant morbidities can result in non-thyroidal illness, resembling mild hypothyroidism both clinically and biochemically. The diagnosis is further complicated as methods for measuring thyroid function (thyrotropin and thyroxine) vary immensely according to methodology and background population. It is thus imperative to ensure a correct diagnosis by etiology (e.g., autoimmunity) before deciding to treat. Even then, there is controversy regarding whether or not treatment of such mild forms of hypothyroidism in elderly will improve mortality, morbidity, and quality of life. This should be studied in large cohorts of patients in long-term placebo-controlled trials with clinically relevant outcomes. Other cases of hypothyroidism, e.g., medications, iodine overload or hypothalamus-pituitary-hypothyroidism, each pose specific challenges to management of hypothyroidism; these cases are also more frequent in the elderly. Finally, adherence to treatment is generally challenging. This is also the case in elderly patients, which may necessitate measuring thyroid hormones at individually tailored intervals, which is important to avoid over-treatment with increased risk of cardiac morbidity and mortality, osteoporosis, cognitive dysfunction, and muscle deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grigoris Effraimidis
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Torquil Watt
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Internal Medicine, Endocrine Section, Copenhagen University Hospital Herlev Gentofte, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ulla Feldt-Rasmussen
- Department of Medical Endocrinology and Metabolism, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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15
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Nagy EV, Perros P, Papini E, Katko M, Hegedüs L. New Formulations of Levothyroxine in the Treatment of Hypothyroidism: Trick or Treat? Thyroid 2021; 31:193-201. [PMID: 33003978 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2020.0515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Background: Levothyroxine (LT4) as a medication is used by up to 5.3% of the adult population. For optimal efficacy, the traditional tablet formulation (LT4tab) requires that patients avoid concomitant ingestion with food, drinks, and certain medications, as well as excellent patient compliance. Some comorbidities influence bioavailability of LT4 and may mandate repeated dose adjustments. Summary: New LT4 formulations (soft gel [LT4soft] and liquid [LT4liq]) containing predissolved LT4 are claimed to improve bioavailability, presumably by facilitating absorption. Thus, these formulations may well be more suitable than LT4tab for patients whose daily requirements are subjected to variations in bioavailability. Here, we review the evidence and indications for use of new LT4 formulations and highlight areas of uncertainty that are worthy of further investigation. While bioequivalence is established for LT4soft and LT4liq administered to healthy volunteers compared with LT4tab in pharmacokinetic (PK) studies, therapeutic equivalence of the new formulations seems to be different in several clinical settings. Some evidence suggests that new formulations of LT4 may mitigate against the strict requirements relating to concomitant ingestion with food, drinks, and certain medications, which apply to traditional LT4 tablets. The principal indication is in selected patients with disease fluctuations and intermittent therapies with interfering medications, where the need for frequent dose adjustments and office visits may be diminished. Whether the use of LT4soft or LT4liq in patients with impaired gastric acid secretion results in better control of hypothyroidism than LT4tab remains unclear. Conclusions: The evidence in favor of using LT4soft and LT4liq in clinical practice over LT4tab is weak, and the underlying putative PK mechanisms unclear. Additional studies to investigate these potential benefits, define the cost-effectiveness, and understand the PK mechanisms involved with new LT4 formulations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Endre V Nagy
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Petros Perros
- Department of Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
| | - Enrico Papini
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Regina Apostolorum Hospital, Albano, Rome, Italy
| | - Monika Katko
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Laszlo Hegedüs
- Department of Endocrinology, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
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16
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Delayed Diagnosis of Congenital Hypothyroidism in a Child with Trisomy 21 and Biotinidase Deficiency and Successful Use of Levothyroxine Sodium Oral Solution. Case Rep Endocrinol 2020; 2020:8883969. [PMID: 33425403 PMCID: PMC7773459 DOI: 10.1155/2020/8883969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Accepted: 12/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Endocrine disorders are more common and appear earlier in people with trisomy 21 (T21) than in the general population, with thyroid dysfunction being the most common, including both congenital and acquired hypothyroidism. The treatment for biotinidase deficiency, a condition that occurs in approximately 1 : 110,000 people, is with biotin (vitamin B7) supplementation. However, biotin can interfere with endocrine laboratory assays and cause falsely low thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and elevated free thyroxine (FT4) levels. This can interfere with the timely diagnosis and subsequent treatment of congenital hypothyroidism (CH). This case report describes an infant with partial biotinidase deficiency that was confirmed on day 10 of life. Routine screening erroneously reported "normal" TSH that caused delayed diagnosis of CH due to interference with the TSH assay from concurrent biotin use. Once the biotin treatment was withheld for 4 days and the thyroid function tests repeated, an elevated TSH became apparent. Treatment with tablet levothyroxine (L-T4) was started and subsequently changed to L-T4 oral solution (Tirosint®-SOL) to overcome treatment administration difficulties encountered with the tablet form. This resulted in improved TSH control due to more accurate and consistent dosing compared with the tablet formulation. This is the first report of the use of L-T4 oral solution in an infant with T21 and biotinidase deficiency.
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Mechanick JI, Apovian C, Brethauer S, Timothy Garvey W, Joffe AM, Kim J, Kushner RF, Lindquist R, Pessah-Pollack R, Seger J, Urman RD, Adams S, Cleek JB, Correa R, Figaro MK, Flanders K, Grams J, Hurley DL, Kothari S, Seger MV, Still CD. Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Perioperative Nutrition, Metabolic, and Nonsurgical Support of Patients Undergoing Bariatric Procedures - 2019 Update: Cosponsored by American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists/American College of Endocrinology, The Obesity Society, American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, Obesity Medicine Association, and American Society of Anesthesiologists. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2020; 28:O1-O58. [PMID: 32202076 DOI: 10.1002/oby.22719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The development of these updated clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) was commissioned by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE), The Obesity Society (TOS), American Society for Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery (ASMBS), Obesity Medicine Association (OMA), and American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) Boards of Directors in adherence with the AACE 2017 protocol for standardized production of CPGs, algorithms, and checklists. METHODS Each recommendation was evaluated and updated based on new evidence from 2013 to the present and subjective factors provided by experts. RESULTS New or updated topics in this CPG include: contextualization in an adiposity-based chronic disease complications-centric model, nuance-based and algorithm/checklist-assisted clinical decision-making about procedure selection, novel bariatric procedures, enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery protocols, and logistical concerns (including cost factors) in the current health care arena. There are 85 numbered recommendations that have updated supporting evidence, of which 61 are revised and 12 are new. Noting that there can be multiple recommendation statements within a single numbered recommendation, there are 31 (13%) Grade A, 42 (17%) Grade B, 72 (29%) Grade C, and 101 (41%) Grade D recommendations. There are 858 citations, of which 81 (9.4%) are evidence level (EL) 1 (highest), 562 (65.5%) are EL 2, 72 (8.4%) are EL 3, and 143 (16.7%) are EL 4 (lowest). CONCLUSIONS Bariatric procedures remain a safe and effective intervention for higher-risk patients with obesity. Clinical decision-making should be evidence based within the context of a chronic disease. A team approach to perioperative care is mandatory, with special attention to nutritional and metabolic issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey I Mechanick
- Guideline Task Force Chair (AACE); Professor of Medicine, Medical Director, Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Clinical Cardiovascular Health at Mount Sinai Heart; Director, Metabolic Support Divisions of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York; Past President, AACE and ACE
| | - Caroline Apovian
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (TOS); Professor of Medicine and Director, Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stacy Brethauer
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (ASMBS); Professor of Surgery, Vice Chair of Surgery, Quality and Patient Safety; Medical Director, Supply Chain Management, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - W Timothy Garvey
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (AACE); Butterworth Professor, Department of Nutrition Sciences, GRECC Investigator and Staff Physician, Birmingham VAMC; Director, UAB Diabetes Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Aaron M Joffe
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (ASA); Professor of Anesthesiology, Service Chief, Otolaryngology, Oral, Maxillofacial, and Urologic Surgeries, Associate Medical Director, Respiratory Care, University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Julie Kim
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (ASMBS); Harvard Medical School, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Robert F Kushner
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (TOS); Professor of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Richard Lindquist
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (OMA); Director, Medical Weight Management, Swedish Medical Center; Director, Medical Weight Management, Providence Health Services; Obesity Medicine Consultant, Seattle, Washington
| | - Rachel Pessah-Pollack
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (AACE); Clinical Associate Professor of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Jennifer Seger
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (OMA); Adjunct Assistant Professor, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Long School of Medicine, UT Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | - Richard D Urman
- Guideline Task Force Co-Chair (ASA); Associate Professor of Anesthesia, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Stephanie Adams
- Writer (AACE); AACE Director of Clinical Practice Guidelines Development, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - John B Cleek
- Writer (TOS); Associate Professor, Department of Nutrition Sciences, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Riccardo Correa
- Technical Analysis (AACE); Assistant Professor of Medicine and Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism Fellowship Director, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona
| | - M Kathleen Figaro
- Technical Analysis (AACE); Board-certified Endocrinologist, Heartland Endocrine Group, Davenport, Iowa
| | - Karen Flanders
- Writer (ASMBS); Massachusetts General Hospital Weight Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jayleen Grams
- Writer (AACE); Associate Professor, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham; Staff Surgeon, Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Daniel L Hurley
- Writer (AACE); Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Shanu Kothari
- Writer (ASMBS); Fellowship Director of MIS/Bariatric Surgery, Gundersen Health System, La Crosse, Wisconsin
| | - Michael V Seger
- Writer (OMA); Bariatric Medical Institute of Texas, San Antonio, Texas, Clinical Assistant Professor, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Christopher D Still
- Writer (TOS); Medical Director, Center for Nutrition and Weight Management Director, Geisinger Obesity Institute; Medical Director, Employee Wellness, Geisinger Health System, Danville, Pennsylvania
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18
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Castellana M, Castellana C, Giovanella L, Trimboli P. Prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders having an impact on tablet levothyroxine absorption: should this formulation still be considered as the first-line therapy? Endocrine 2020; 67:281-290. [PMID: 31953721 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-019-02185-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE In patients with hypothyroidism, levothyroxine (LT4) is the treatment of choice, and tablets are the most commonly prescribed formulation. Despite multiple scenarios being reported in the literature with impaired tablet absorption and likely missed TSH targets, it is yet unclear what the implications are for clinical practice and the role of liquid solution (LS) and soft gel (SG) formulations. We have thus conducted a narrative review evaluating the prevalence within the general population of gastrointestinal disorders impacting tablet LT4 absorption. METHODS PubMed and Google Scholar were searched until December 2019 for systematic reviews and meta-analyses on the topic. If they could not be retrieved, other types of manuscripts were searched. RESULTS Lactose malabsorption and Helicobacter pylori infection represented the most common disorders, with a global prevalence of 68% and 48%, respectively. The prevalence of other conditions, including autoimmune gastritis, bariatric surgery, celiac disease, gastroparesis, giardiasis, liver cirrhosis, or ulcerative colitis, was lower than 20%. Data at regional and country levels were found to be heterogeneous, but at least one in five patients was diagnosed with one disorder. CONCLUSIONS The worldwide prevalence of gastrointestinal disorders associated with tablet LT4 malabsorption, including lactose malabsorption and Helicobacter pylori infection, is high. Interactions with drugs or food can further increase this risk. Considering that all studies investigating the impact of switching patients from tablet to LS or SG found an improved thyroid balance, the latter formulations should be considered as first-line therapy for managing hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Castellana
- National Institute of Gastroenterology "S. De Bellis", Castellana Grotte, Bari, Italy
| | | | - Luca Giovanella
- Clinic for Nuclear Medicine and Competence Center for Thyroid Diseases, Imaging Institute of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Pierpaolo Trimboli
- Clinic for Nuclear Medicine and Competence Center for Thyroid Diseases, Imaging Institute of Southern Switzerland, Ente Ospedaliero Cantonale, Bellinzona, Switzerland.
- Scienze Biomediche, Università della Svizzera Italiana (USI), Lugano, Switzerland.
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Benvenga S. Liquid and softgel capsules of l-thyroxine results lower serum thyrotropin levels more than tablet formulations in hypothyroid patients. JOURNAL OF CLINICAL AND TRANSLATIONAL ENDOCRINOLOGY 2019; 18:100204. [PMID: 31844631 PMCID: PMC6896494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jcte.2019.100204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2019] [Revised: 08/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Objective Evidence indicates that L-T4 in liquid and softgel capsule are absorbed better than tablets in hypothyroid patients, even when patients are under medications that impair the intestinal absorption of L-T4. However, no study has evaluated all three L-T4 formulations in the same hypothyroid patients. This study aims to fill this gap. The outcome was the degree of TSH change in the liquid and softgel formulations, using tablet L-T4 as the reference, regardless of sequence of formulation and regardless of whether patients were co-ingesting with interfering medications. Methods We recorded serum TSH levels in two groups of L-T4 replaced patients with primary hypothyroidism (23 subjects who did not co-ingest interfering medications, and 20 subjects who did). Either group of patients took one formulation of L-T4 at a time with variable sequences. In the first group, the median durations of exposure to tablet, liquid or softgel L-T4 were 14, 9 and 10 months, respectively. In the second group the corresponding durations were 13, 11 and 10 months, during which patients co-ingested interfering medications. Results In the 23 patients, there were 78, 74 or 101 TSH determinations during liquid, softgel capsule or tablet L-T4 regimens. Serum TSH levels associated with liquid, capsule or tablet L-T4 were 1.62 ± 0.51, 1.77 ± 0.44 mU/L (P = 0.049 vs liquid) or 2.38 ± 0.69 mU/L (P < 0.0001 vs liquid or capsule). Rates of TSH ≤ 2.50 mU/L were 97.4% (liquid), 95.9% (softgel) or 64.4% (tablet, P < 0.0001 vs liquid or capsule). Rates of TSH ≤ 4.12 mU/L were 100%, 100% or 98.0%. In the 20 patients, the corresponding TSH determinations were 56, 57 and 41, and corresponding TSH levels were 2.74 ± 0.98, 2.70 ± 0.79 or 7.53 ± 2.82 mU/L. Rates of TSH ≤ 2.50 mU/L were 51.8% (liquid), 47.4% (capsule, P = 0.64) or 2.4% (tablet, P < 0.0001 vs liquid or capsule). Rates of TSH ≤ 4.12 mU/L were 92.8% (liquid), 94.7% (capsule, P = 0.68) or 12.2% (tablet, P < 0.0001 vs liquid or capsule). Conclusions L-T4 ingested as liquid solution or softgel capsule is more bioavailable compared to L-T4 ingested as tablet, and it is slightly superior to capsule L-T4 only in the absence of co-ingestion of interfering medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Benvenga
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women's Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.,Interdepartmental Program of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology, and Women's Endocrine Health, University Hospital, AOU Policlinico G. Martino, Messina, Italy
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Garayalde Gamboa MDLÁ, Saban M, Curriá MI. Treatment with Intramuscular Levothyroxine in Refractory Hypothyroidism. Eur Thyroid J 2019; 8:319-323. [PMID: 31934558 PMCID: PMC6944946 DOI: 10.1159/000503324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Orally and daily levothyroxine (LT4) is the treatment of choice for hypothyroidism. In the majority of cases, the lack of effectiveness by this way may be due to poor adherence; however, gastrointestinal malabsorption may explain more cases of thyroxine refractoriness than previously reputed, due to the number of occult forms of these disorders. CASE PRESENTATION A 55-year-old white man with a diagnosis of low risk of recurrence of follicular variant of papillary thyroid carcinoma was treated with total thyroidectomy, 30 mCi iodine 131, and oral LT4. A year before he presented a gastric adenocarcinoma that required a partial gastrectomy. He evolved with multiple episodes of intestinal subocclusion that had to be treated with enterectomy in the first instance, then digestive rest and total parenteral nutrition. In spite of having made increases in oral LT4 dose (3 µg/kg), the patient persisted with a thyroid-stimulating hormone level >100 mIU/L. For this reason, we decided to administer intramuscular LT4. CONCLUSION Since there are no guidelines or consensus of intramuscular LT4 use, our experience and how we decided the dose and way of administration are presented in this article to contribute to future cases.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melina Saban
- Service of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Nutrition, and Diabetes, Buenos Aires British Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Marina Ines Curriá
- Service of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Nutrition, and Diabetes, Buenos Aires British Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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21
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Mechanick JI, Apovian C, Brethauer S, Garvey WT, Joffe AM, Kim J, Kushner RF, Lindquist R, Pessah-Pollack R, Seger J, Urman RD, Adams S, Cleek JB, Correa R, Figaro MK, Flanders K, Grams J, Hurley DL, Kothari S, Seger MV, Still CD. Clinical practice guidelines for the perioperative nutrition, metabolic, and nonsurgical support of patients undergoing bariatric procedures - 2019 update: cosponsored by American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists/American College of Endocrinology, The Obesity Society, American Society for Metabolic & Bariatric Surgery, Obesity Medicine Association, and American Society of Anesthesiologists. Surg Obes Relat Dis 2019; 16:175-247. [PMID: 31917200 DOI: 10.1016/j.soard.2019.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 233] [Impact Index Per Article: 46.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The development of these updated clinical practice guidelines (CPG) was commissioned by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, The Obesity Society, the American Society of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery, the Obesity Medicine Association, and the American Society of Anesthesiologists boards of directors in adherence to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists 2017 protocol for standardized production of CPG, algorithms, and checklists. METHODS Each recommendation was evaluated and updated based on new evidence from 2013 to the present and subjective factors provided by experts. RESULTS New or updated topics in this CPG include contextualization in an adiposity-based, chronic disease complications-centric model, nuance-based, and algorithm/checklist-assisted clinical decision-making about procedure selection, novel bariatric procedures, enhanced recovery after bariatric surgery protocols, and logistical concerns (including cost factors) in the current healthcare arena. There are 85 numbered recommendations that have updated supporting evidence, of which 61 are revised and 12 are new. Noting that there can be multiple recommendation statements within a single numbered recommendation, there are 31 (13%) Grade A, 42 (17%) Grade B, 72 (29%) Grade C, and 101 (41%) Grade D recommendations. There are 858 citations, of which 81 (9.4%) are evidence level (EL) 1 (highest), 562 (65.5%) are EL 2, 72 (8.4%) are EL 3, and 143 (16.7%) are EL 4 (lowest). CONCLUSIONS Bariatric procedures remain a safe and effective intervention for higher-risk patients with obesity. Clinical decision-making should be evidence-based within the context of a chronic disease. A team approach to perioperative care is mandatory with special attention to nutritional and metabolic issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey I Mechanick
- Marie-Josée and Henry R. Kravis Center for Clinical Cardiovascular Health at Mount Sinai Heart, New York, New York; Metabolic Support Divisions of Cardiology and Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Bone Disease, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York.
| | - Caroline Apovian
- Nutrition and Weight Management, Boston University School of Medicine and Boston Medical Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - W Timothy Garvey
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama; UAB Diabetes Research Center, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Aaron M Joffe
- University of Washington, Harborview Medical Center, Seattle, Washington
| | - Julie Kim
- Harvard Medical School, Mount Auburn Hospital, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Robert F Kushner
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | - Rachel Pessah-Pollack
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, NYU Langone Health, New York, New York
| | - Jennifer Seger
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Long School of Medicine, UT Health Science Center, San Antonio, Texas
| | | | - Stephanie Adams
- American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, Jacksonville, Florida
| | - John B Cleek
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | | | | | - Karen Flanders
- Massachusetts General Hospital Weight Center, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Jayleen Grams
- Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama; Birmingham VA Medical Center, Birmingham, Alabama
| | - Daniel L Hurley
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minnesota
| | | | - Michael V Seger
- Bariatric Medical Institute of Texas, San Antonio, Texas, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, Texas
| | - Christopher D Still
- Center for Nutrition and Weight Management Director, Geisinger Obesity Institute, Danville, Pennsylvania; Employee Wellness, Geisinger Health System, Danville, Pennsylvania
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22
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Mateo RCI, Hennessey JV. Thyroxine and treatment of hypothyroidism: seven decades of experience. Endocrine 2019; 66:10-17. [PMID: 31321670 PMCID: PMC6794242 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-019-02006-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Hypothyroidism is one of the most common endocrine disorders, affecting as much as 10% of the global population. There is a rich cultural milieu of treatment history and interventions dating as far back as 2 millennia. Chinese cretins were treated with sheep thyroid in the 6th century. In 1890, transplanted animal thyroid tissue resulted in a prompt clinical response in a myxedematous patient, and in 1891 injections of sheep thyroid were reported. One year later, the oral administration of fresh sheep thyroid glands was noted to be effective. Within a few years, the danger of over-dosage with extracts was recognized and dosing guidance indicated a low dose start and gradual increase as required based on symptoms. Orally ingested extracts became widespread and by 1914 thyroxine had been crystallized. In 1927, thyroxine, was synthesized as an acid, limiting oral absorption. Finally a sodium salt of thyroxine was introduced in 1949. These synthetic preparations were then made available for clinical use. Prior to 1970, extracts and combination therapy with synthetic LT4 and LT3 were standard replacement until the peripheral deiodinase-mediated T4 to T3 conversion documented the endogenous generation of T3 from LT4 in athyreotic subjects. This resulted in advocacy for patients previously treated with combinations and desiccated thyroid be transitioned to L-thyroxine monotherapy. The determination of the optimal dose has evolved such that now a general recommendation for replacement dosage of LT4 is 1.6-1.7 mcg/kg/day. Thyroid hormone extracts were established prior to the FDA's establishment in 1906, and when the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic act of 1938 enhanced the FDA's regulatory authority. In 1997, FDA declared LT4 products to be new drugs subject to regulation and quickly a pharmacokinetic process to determine interchangeability among approved LT4 products ensued. Differences in bioavailability of 12.5% or more may be considered therapeutically equivalent and therefore such products interchangeable. To assure refill to refill consistency, all levothyroxine sodium products now meet a 95-105% potency specification throughout their labeled shelf-lives. Seventy years after Kendall's great achievement in isolating thyroxine, we have thyroxine products with precise amounts of synthetic hormone that meet demanding regulations to assure high product quality, predictable bioavailability given its narrow therapeutic range, and now are left with potential variance in the therapeutic efficacy among different preparations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roselyn Cristelle I Mateo
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Rush Medical College, Rush University Medical Center, Jelke Building 6th Floor, 1750 Harrison Street, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA.
| | - James V Hennessey
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, 330 Brookline Avenue, Gryzmish 6, Boston, MA, 02215, USA
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Abstract
The purpose of this article will be to review the basics of thyroid hormone therapy, including various thyroid hormone formulations, the institution and monitoring of thyroid hormone therapy, adverse effects of overtreatment, the management of patients with persistent symptoms despite normal thyroid function tests, and potential new innovations in thyroid hormone therapy. The conclusions support the necessity to personalize thyroid hormone replacement therapy in hypothyroid patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Biondi
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - David S Cooper
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA
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Inefficiency of levothyroxine suspension in a neonate with congenital hypothyroidism. CASE REPORTS IN PERINATAL MEDICINE 2019. [DOI: 10.1515/crpm-2018-0046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Congenital hypothyroidism is one of the major causes of preventable mental retardation. Diagnosis, hormonal replacement and normalization of thyroid function tests should happen before 2–3 weeks of life. Levothyroxine is the treatment of choice for congenital hypothyroidism.
Case presentation
A patient born at 32 weeks for gestational age with a birthweight of 1.73 kg. The pregnancy and delivery were uncomplicated. The physical exam was unremarkable. The initial newborn screen noted a thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) of 70.5 mIU/mL (n < 20 mIU/mL). Serum thyroid function test revealed a TSH of 215 mIU/mL and free thyroxine (FT4) of 0.08 ng/dL. The patient was started on levothyroxine 25 μg tablet daily at day of life (DOL) 7. Repeat TSH and FT4 after 1 week of treatment, revealed a TSH of 0.686 and FT4 of 4.12 ng/dL, levothyroxine was discontinued. Repeat tests after 1 week, showed a TSH of 47.5 mIU/mL and a FT4 of 0.84 ng/dL. Levothyroxine in a liquid form at 25 μg a day was started on DOL 21. On DOL 38, TSH was repeated and was noted to be 120 mIU/mL. Levothyroxine was switched to a tablet formulation and was increased to 37.5 μg daily. Repeat tests at DOL 50, showed a TSH that was trending down to 9.241 mIU/mL.
Conclusion
Levothyroxine (T4) is a synthetic hormone considered to be the standard of care for the treatment of congenital hypothyroidism. Treatment is most effective if given orally in tablet form. To date, there are no liquid formulations and no compounding recipes that produce a stable concentration of levothyroxine in the USA. Efforts to create suspensions, especially for neonates, should be carefully considered as this is a critical time for brain development. The case presented shows how treatment of congenital hypothyroidism can be ineffective if using a liquid formulation of levothyroxine.
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Benvenga S, Carlé A. Levothyroxine Formulations: Pharmacological and Clinical Implications of Generic Substitution. Adv Ther 2019; 36:59-71. [PMID: 31485974 PMCID: PMC6822816 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-019-01079-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Oral levothyroxine (LT4) is the standard therapy for patients with hypothyroidism. Oral LT4 is available in several formulations, including tablets, soft gel capsules and oral solution. Multiple brand-name and generic LT4 tablets are available. In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has developed a protocol for establishing bioequivalence of LT4 formulations based on serum thyroxine (T4) levels after a single oral dose administered to healthy volunteers. This protocol has been criticized by professional endocrinology associations for using healthy individuals and ignoring serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. In addition, the protocol did not initially correct for baseline T4 levels, although this was changed in a later version. There are concerns that the FDA's protocol could allow products with clinically significant differences in bioavailability to be declared therapeutically equivalent and interchangeable. Once a generic LT4 has been shown to be bioequivalent to a brand-name LT4, it may be substituted for that brand-name LT4 with no need for dose adjustment or follow-up therapeutic monitoring. Often, the substitution is made by the pharmacy without the physician's knowledge. Even small differences between LT4 formulations can cause significant changes in TSH levels. This may be a particular concern in vulnerable populations, including elderly, pregnant, and pediatric patients. Problems that can be encountered when switching between formulations or when original products are reformulated are discussed in this review. These problems include altered efficacy and adverse events, some of which can be caused by excipients. Patients should be maintained on the same LT4 preparation if possible. If the LT4 preparation is changed, TSH levels should be evaluated and, if necessary, the dose of LT4 adjusted.Funding: Merck.Plain Language Summary: Plain language summary available for this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Benvenga
- Endocrinology Section, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women's Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular and Clinical Endocrinology and Women's Endocrine Health, University Hospital, AOU Policlinico G. Martino, Messina, Italy.
| | - Allan Carlé
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg, Denmark
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Morini E, Catalano A, Lasco A, Morabito N, Benvenga S. In thyroxine-replaced hypothyroid postmenopausal women under simultaneous calcium supplementation, switch to oral liquid or softgel capsule L-thyroxine ensures lower serum TSH levels and favorable effects on blood pressure, total cholesterolemia and glycemia. Endocrine 2019; 65:569-579. [PMID: 30919287 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-019-01908-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Accepted: 03/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE In postmenopausal women under L-T4 therapy, which was subsequently accompanied by calcium carbonate (CC) supplementation taken 6-8 h after tablet L-T4, TSH levels were greater than prior to adding CC. Total cholesterolemia [CHOL], fasting glycemia [FG], systolic and diastolic blood pressure [SBP, DBP] were also greater than baseline. Our aim was to explore the effects of either liquid or softgel capsule L-T4, while maintaining CC ingestion 6-8 h, later on TSH levels, CHOL, FG, SBP, and DBP. METHODS We proposed to 50 hypothyroid postmenopausal women under tablet L-T4 therapy, to switch to either liquid or softgel capsule L-T4 at the same daily dose while maintaining CC ingestion 6-8 h later. Sixteen women accepted [group I; liquid (n = 9), capsule (n = 7)], while 34 continued tablet L-T4 [group II, (n = 34)]. RESULTS After 3 months, in group I, TSH decreased significantly (1.23 ± 0.49 vs. 1.80 ± 0.37 mU/L, P < 0.01), as did FG (80.7 ± 7.9 vs. 83.4 ± 6.3 mg/dL, P < 0.05); CHOL, SBP, and DBP decreased, though insignificantly. In contrast, in group II, TSH, FG, CHOL, SBP increased insignificantly, and DBP increased borderline significantly (69.7 ± 9 vs. 66.3 ± 6.5, P < 0.10). Compared to baseline (before adding CC), in group I, TSH was significantly lower (P < 0.01) and the other indices similar; in group II, TSH, FG, and SBP were significantly higher (P < 0.05), DBP borderline significantly higher (P < 0.10) and CHOL insignificantly higher. Performance of liquid L-T4 and capsule L-T4 was similar. CONCLUSION Delaying CC ingestion even by 6-8 h after taking tablet L-T4 is not entirely satisfactory, unlike liquid or softgel L-T4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Morini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Building H, 4th floor, via C. Valeria, Messina, 98125, Italy
| | - Antonino Catalano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Building H, 4th floor, via C. Valeria, Messina, 98125, Italy
| | - Antonino Lasco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Building H, 4th floor, via C. Valeria, Messina, 98125, Italy
| | - Nunziata Morabito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Building H, 4th floor, via C. Valeria, Messina, 98125, Italy
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Building H, 4th floor, via C. Valeria, Messina, 98125, Italy.
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women's Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Messina, 98125, Italy.
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology, and Women's Endocrine Health, University Hospital Policlinico G. Martino, via Consolare Valeria, Messina, 98125, Italy.
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Brutus L, Poupard A, Le Glatin C. Major imbalance of thyroid function after laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. BMJ Case Rep 2019; 12:12/8/e230515. [PMID: 31401581 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2019-230515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
In patients with substituted hypothyroidism, laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy may interfere with thyroid balance by varying body weight or by altering the absorption of hormone therapy. A 58-year-old female patient presented with a major thyroid imbalance after sleeve gastrectomy, manifesting itself in large-scale changes in thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels. The transition from a tablet treatment to a liquid form alleviated burden of treatment, unfortunately without normalising TSH. Our case emphasises the importance of the understanding of hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid feedback control mechanisms together with good galenic choice, management of associated conditions and the elimination of other causes of variations of TSH levels during the management of hypothyroid patients after sleeve gastrectomy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Brutus
- Pôle de Santé du Marais, Sallertaine, France.,Département de médecine générale, Université de Nantes, Nantes, Pays de la Loire, France
| | - Armelle Poupard
- Pôle de Santé du Marais, Sallertaine, France.,Département de médecine générale, Université de Nantes, Nantes, Pays de la Loire, France
| | - Clément Le Glatin
- Pôle de Santé du Marais, Sallertaine, France.,Département de médecine générale, Université de Nantes, Nantes, Pays de la Loire, France
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Bellastella G, Caputo M, Maiorino MI, Longo M, Scappaticcio L, Giugliano D, Esposito K. EMPATHY: A New Tool for Identifying the Most Suitable Thyroxine Formulation in Hypothyroid Patients. Thyroid 2019; 29:928-933. [PMID: 30963820 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2018.0493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background: Therapy of hypothyroidism is based on the administration of appropriate doses of levothyroxine (LT4). A failure to achieve the thyrotropin (TSH) target may be due to poor compliance with the LT4 therapy in about 60% of cases or to malabsorption in about 40% of cases. No tools are available for detecting malabsorption disorders before the choice of the most appropriate therapy. The aim of this study was to validate the Evaluation of Malabsorption in PATients with HYpothyroidism (EMPATHY) questionnaire and to demonstrate its usefulness in indicating the most appropriate therapy. Methods: EMPATHY consists of seven questions that allow the evaluation of several intolerances and allergies. Three hundred (100 males) newly diagnosed hypothyroid patients were enrolled and randomly assigned to complete an EMPATHY questionnaire (150 patients; group 1) or to a control group (150 patients; group 2). The choice of thyroxine formulation and dose for each group was made on the basis of the questionnaire answers or based on the history. Thyroid hormones and TSH were evaluated at enrollment and then every two months for six months; the number of the dose adjustments in the six months for each patient was recorded. Results: Of the 150 patients in each group, 21 (14%) in group 1 and 42 (28%) in group 2 (p = 0.005) needed more than two dose adjustments within six months. After six months of replacement therapy, six (4%) patients in group 1 and 17 (11%) in group 2 (p = 0.03) did not have appropriately controlled hypothyroidism (TSH ≥2.5 mIU/L). A significantly higher LT4 final dose was found in group 2 (148 ± 33 μg/day) than in group 1 (136 ± 28 μg/day; p = 0.003). Conclusions: Validation of EMPATHY provides endocrinologists with a useful tool in clinical practice, permitting a better personalization of LT4 replacement therapy, a more rapid attainment of the target TSH levels, and a decreased need for dose adjustments after initiating therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Bellastella
- 1Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Mariangela Caputo
- 1Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Maria Ida Maiorino
- 1Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Miriam Longo
- 1Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Scappaticcio
- 1Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Dario Giugliano
- 1Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
| | - Katherine Esposito
- 2Diabetes Unit, Department of Advanced Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Campania "L. Vanvitelli," Naples, Italy
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29
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Morini E, Catalano A, Lasco A, Morabito N, Benvenga S. L-thyroxine malabsorption due to calcium carbonate impairs blood pressure, total cholesterolemia, and fasting glycemia. Endocrine 2019; 64:284-292. [PMID: 30368654 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-018-1798-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2018] [Accepted: 10/19/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Calcium carbonate was previously shown to interfere with L-thyroxine absorption. To estimate the magnitude of tablet L-thyroxine malabsorption caused by calcium carbonate, with resulting increase in serum thyrotropin (TSH), we performed a cohort study in a referral care center. METHODS Fifty postmenopausal hypothyroid L-thyroxine-treated women (age 71.7 ± 5.1 years) who added calcium supplementation (600-1000 mg/day) were considered. They were taking L-thyroxine 45-60 min before breakfast (setting 1). After 4.4 ± 2.0 years from initiation of L-thyroxine therapy, they took calcium supplemaentation within 2 h after L-thyroxine taking (setting 2) for 2.3 ± 1.1 years. Hence, we recommended postponing calcium intake 6-8 h after L-thyroxine (setting 3). We evaluated TSH levels, the prevalence of women with elevated TSH (>4.12 mU/L), total cholesterolemia, fasting glycemia, blood pressure, and the prevalence of hypercholesterolemia, hyperglycemia, and hypertension. RESULTS TSH levels were 3.33 ± 1.93 mU/L versus 1.93 ± 0.51 or 2.16 ± 0.54 comparing setting 2 with setting 1 or 3 (P < 0.001, both). In setting 2, 18% women had elevated TSH versus none in setting 1 or 3 (P < 0.01). Total cholesterolemia, fasting glycemia, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure were also significantly higher in setting 2 compared to settings 1 and 3. For every 1.0 mU/L increase within the TSH range of 0.85-6.9 mU/L, total cholesterolemia, glycemia, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure increased by 12.1, 3.12 mg/dL, 2.31, and 2.0 mmHg, respectively. CONCLUSIONS Monitoring of hypothyroid patients who ingest medications that decrease L-thyroxine absorption should not be restricted to solely measuring serum TSH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Morini
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Catalano
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Antonino Lasco
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Nunziata Morabito
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women's Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Viale Gazzi, 98125, Messina, Italy.
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology, and Women's Endocrine Health, University Hospital Policlinico G. Martino, Messina, Italy.
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Tortora A, La Sala D, Vitale M. Switch from tablet levothyroxine to oral solution resolved reduced absorption by intestinal parasitosis. Endocrinol Diabetes Metab Case Rep 2019; 2019:EDM190026. [PMID: 30897550 PMCID: PMC6432983 DOI: 10.1530/edm-19-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Reduced intestinal absorption of levothyroxine (LT4) is the most common cause of failure to achieve an adequate therapeutic target in hypothyroid patients under replacement therapy. We present the case of a 63-year-old woman with autoimmune hypothyroidism previously well-replaced with tablet LT4 who became unexpectedly no more euthyroid. At presentation, the patient reported the onset of acute gastrointestinal symptoms characterized by nausea, loss of appetite, flatulence, abdominal cramps and diarrhea, associated with increase of thyrotropin levels (TSH: 11 mIU/mL). Suspecting a malabsorption disease, a thyroxine solid-to-liquid formulation switch, at the same daily dose, was adopted to reach an optimal therapeutic target despite the gastrointestinal symptoms persistence. Oral LT4 solution normalized thyroid hormones. Further investigations diagnosed giardiasis, and antibiotic therapy was prescribed. This case report is compatible with a malabsorption syndrome caused by an intestinal parasite (Giardia lamblia). The reduced absorption of levothyroxine was resolved by LT4 oral solution. Learning points: The failure to adequately control hypothyroidism with oral levothyroxine is a common clinical problem. Before increasing levothyroxine dose in a patient with hypothyroidism previously well-controlled with LT4 tablets but no more in appropriate therapeutic target, we suggest to investigate non adhesion to LT4 therapy, drug or food interference with levothyroxine absorption, intestinal infection, inflammatory intestinal disease, celiac disease, lactose intolerance, short bowel syndrome after intestinal or bariatric surgery, hepatic cirrhosis and congestive heart failure. LT4 oral solution has a better absorptive profile than the tablet. In hypothyroid patients affected by malabsorption syndrome, switch of replacement therapy from tablet to liquid LT4 should be tested before increasing the dose of LT4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Tortora
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Domenico La Sala
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
| | - Mario Vitale
- Department of Medicine, Surgery and Dentistry, University of Salerno, Baronissi, Salerno, Italy
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31
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Virili C, Antonelli A, Santaguida MG, Benvenga S, Centanni M. Gastrointestinal Malabsorption of Thyroxine. Endocr Rev 2019; 40:118-136. [PMID: 30476027 DOI: 10.1210/er.2018-00168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Levothyroxine, a largely prescribed drug with a narrow therapeutic index, is often a lifelong treatment. The therapeutic efficacy of T4 may be marred by behavioral, pharmacologic, and pathologic issues acting as interfering factors. Despite a continuous search for an optimal T4 treatment, a significant number of patients fail to show a complete chemical and/or clinical response to this reference dose of T4. Gastrointestinal malabsorption of oral T4 represents an emerging cause of refractory hypothyroidism and may be more frequent than previously reputed. In this review, we examine the pharmacologic features of T4 preparations and their linkage with the intestinal absorption of the hormone. We have stressed the major biochemical and pharmacologic characteristics of T4 and its interaction with the putative transporter at the intestinal level. We have examined the interfering role of nutrients, foods, and drugs on T4 absorption at the gastric and intestinal levels. The impact of gastrointestinal disorders on T4 treatment efficacy has been also analyzed, in keeping with the site of action and the interfering mechanisms. Based on the evidence obtained from the literature, we also propose a schematic diagnostic workup for the most frequent and often hidden gastrointestinal diseases impairing T4 absorption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Virili
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Giulia Santaguida
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Latina, Italy.,Endocrinology Unit, AUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy.,Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women's Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy.,Interdepartmental Program of Molecular and Clinical Endocrinology, and Women's Endocrine Health, University Hospital, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Marco Centanni
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, "Sapienza" University of Rome, Latina, Italy.,Endocrinology Unit, AUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
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Virili C, Stramazzo I, Santaguida MG, Bruno G, Brusca N, Capriello S, Cellini M, Severi C, Gargano L, Centanni M. Ulcerative Colitis as a Novel Cause of Increased Need for Levothyroxine. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:233. [PMID: 31040825 PMCID: PMC6476912 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Thyroxine absorption takes place at the small intestine level and several disorders affecting this intestinal tract lead to thyroxine malabsorption. An increased need for thyroxine has also been observed in gastric disorders due to variations in drug dissolution and/or in its ionization status. Ulcerative colitis (UC) is an inflammatory bowel disease that has been postulated as a potential cause of the increased need for thyroxine, but there is a lack of evidence on this topic. This study is aimed at measuring the thyroxine requirement in hypothyroid patients with UC. Patients and Methods: Among 8,573 patients with thyroid disorders consecutively seen in our referral center from 2010 to 2017, we identified 34 patients with a definite diagnosis of UC. Thirteen of them were hypothyroid (12 F/1 M; median age = 53 years), bearing UC during the remission phase and in need for thyroxine treatment, thus representing the study group. The dose of T4 required by UC patients has been compared to the one observed in 51 similarly treated age- and weight-matched patients, compliant with treatment and clearly devoid of any gastrointestinal and /or pharmacological interference. Results: To reach the target serum TSH, the dose of thyroxine had to be increased in twelve out of thirteen (92%) hypothyroid patients with ulcerative colitis. The median thyroxine dose required by UC patients was 1.54 μg/kg weight/day, that is 26% higher than the control patients, to reach a similar TSH (1.23 μg/kg weight/day; p = 0.0002). Since half of our study group consisted of patients aged over 60 years old, we analyzed the effect of age on the subdivision in two classes. Six out of seven (86%) adult patients (<60 years) required more T4 than those in the respective control group (1.61 vs. 1.27 μg/kg weight/day; +27%; p < 0.0001). An increased dose (+17%; p = 0.0026) but to a lesser extent, was also observed in all patients over 60 years, as compared to the control group. Conclusions: In almost all hypothyroid patients with UC, the therapeutic dose of thyroxine is increased. Therefore, ulcerative colitis, even during clinical remission, should be included among the gastrointestinal causes of an increased need for oral thyroxine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Virili
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
- *Correspondence: Camilla Virili
| | - Ilaria Stramazzo
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Bruno
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Nunzia Brusca
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Silvia Capriello
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Miriam Cellini
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Carola Severi
- Gastroenterology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Medical Specialties, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Lucilla Gargano
- Endocrinology Unit, Santa Maria Goretti Hospital, AUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
| | - Marco Centanni
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
- Endocrinology Unit, Santa Maria Goretti Hospital, AUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
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Conte L, Monti E, Gay S, Marroni P, Adorno A, Mittica M, Mussap M, Giusti M. Evaluation of adequacy of levo-thyroxine dosage in patients with differentiated thyroid carcinoma: correlation between morning and afternoon TSH determination. J Endocrinol Invest 2018; 41:1193-1197. [PMID: 29476411 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-018-0852-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 02/13/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to judge the reliability of evaluating thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (f-T4) in the morning and afternoon in differentiated thyroid carcinoma (DTC) patients. METHODS We evaluated 153 DTC patients, aged 61 ± 13 years, in active follow-up in our center after primary treatments and under stabilized levo-thyroxine (L-T4) posology. In each patient, morning and afternoon examinations were performed 1-3 months apart. Blood samples were collected at 08:00-09:00 h and 15:00-16:00 h. TSH and f-T4 were evaluated in both samples. Thyroglobulin (Tg), Tg-antibodies and neck ultrasonography were also evaluated. RESULTS According to clinical and laboratory examinations, 92% of patients were disease-free, 6% had biochemical disease, and 2% structural disease. L-T4 dosages (1.64 ± 0.38 µg/kg b.w.) proved the same on both occasions, despite slight changes in body weight or L-T4 posology in 15% of patients. Free-T4 values were significantly higher in the afternoon (21.5 ± 0.3 pmol/L) than in the morning (18.8 ± 0.4 pmol/L; P < 0.0001), whereas TSH values were statistically unchanged (morning 0.85 ± 0.25 mIU/L; afternoon 0.72 ± 0.20 mIU/L). There was a significant correlation (P < 0.0001) between the two TSH determinations in the same patients. CONCLUSIONS In DTC patients, follow-up examination consists of clinical and laboratory evaluations. The majority of patients have good disease control. Our study suggests that the adequacy of L-T4 therapy can be monitored equally well either in the morning or in the afternoon. Afternoon examinations can alleviate crowding in hospital ambulatories in the morning.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Conte
- Endocrine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16100, Genoa, Italy.
| | - E Monti
- Endocrine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16100, Genoa, Italy
| | - S Gay
- Endocrine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16100, Genoa, Italy
| | - P Marroni
- Laboratory Medicine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - A Adorno
- Endocrine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16100, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Mittica
- Endocrine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16100, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Mussap
- Laboratory Medicine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - M Giusti
- Endocrine Unit, Policlinico San Martino, Viale Benedetto XV, 6, 16100, Genoa, Italy
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Peirce C, Ippolito S, Lanas A, Pesce M, Pontieri G, Arpaia D, Sarnelli G, Biondi B. Treatment of refractory and severe hypothyroidism with sublingual levothyroxine in liquid formulation. Endocrine 2018; 60:193-196. [PMID: 28702889 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1367-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Accepted: 06/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Carmela Peirce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Ippolito
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Alejandra Lanas
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Marcella Pesce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Gilda Pontieri
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Debora Arpaia
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni Sarnelli
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Bernadette Biondi
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Via Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
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Guglielmi V, Bellia A, Bianchini E, Medea G, Cricelli I, Sbraccia P, Lauro D, Cricelli C, Lapi F. Drug interactions in users of tablet vs. oral liquid levothyroxine formulations: a real-world evidence study in primary care. Endocrine 2018; 59:585-592. [PMID: 28905202 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1412-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2017] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Several medications may interact with levothyroxine (LT4) intestinal absorption or metabolism, thus reducing its bioavailability. We investigated the variability of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels and prescribed daily dosages (PDDs) of LT4 before and during potential drug-drug interactions (DDIs) in users of tablets vs. oral liquid LT4 formulations. METHODS By using the Italian general practice Health Search Database (HSD), we retrospectively selected adult patients with at least one LT4 prescription from 2012 to 2015 and at least 1 year of clinical history recorded. The incident prescription of interacting medications (e.g., proton pump inhibitors, calcium or iron salts) was the index date. Analysis was carried out using a self-controlled study design. RESULTS Overall, 3965 users of LT4 formed the study cohort (84.1% women, mean age 56 ± 16.5 years). TSH variability on the entry date was greater among liquid LT4 users than in those prescribed with tablets as shown by the difference between 75th and 25th centile, which were 3.01 and 3.8, respectively. The incidence rate ratio (IRR) for TSH variability did not differ between groups, before and during exposure to DDIs. In contrast, PDDs less likely increased during the exposure to DDI with oral liquid LT4 compared with tablets (IRR = 0.84; 95% CI: 0.77-0.92), especially in patients with post-surgical hypothyroidism (IRR = 0.75; 95% CI: 0.64-0.85). CONCLUSIONS In clinical practice, the use of oral liquid LT4 is not associated with increased PDDs, compared with tablets formulation, during exposure to DDIs. These results support the need for individualizing LT4 formulation to prescribe, especially in patients with various comorbidities and complex therapeutic regimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Guglielmi
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Alfonso Bellia
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Bianchini
- Health Search, Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Gerardo Medea
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Iacopo Cricelli
- Health Search, Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Paolo Sbraccia
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Lauro
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome "Tor Vergata", Rome, Italy
| | - Claudio Cricelli
- Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy
| | - Francesco Lapi
- Health Search, Italian College of General Practitioners and Primary Care, Florence, Italy.
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Di Donna V, Paragliola RM, de Waure C, Papi G, Pontecorvi A, Corsello SM. Is levothyroxine requirement the same for tablet and soft gel formulations? Endocrine 2018; 59:458-460. [PMID: 28466401 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1311-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Vincenzo Di Donna
- Unit of Endocrinology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Rosa Maria Paragliola
- Unit of Endocrinology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Chiara de Waure
- Institute of Public Health, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Giampaolo Papi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- Unit of Endocrinology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Salvatore Maria Corsello
- Unit of Endocrinology, Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168, Rome, Italy.
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Benvenga S, Capodicasa G, Perelli S, Ferrari SM, Fallahi P, Antonelli A. Increased Requirement of Replacement Doses of Levothyroxine Caused by Liver Cirrhosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:150. [PMID: 29720960 PMCID: PMC5915540 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since hypothyroidism is a fairly common dysfunction, levothyroxine (L-T4) is one of the most prescribed medications. Approximately 70% of the administered L-T4 dose is absorbed. The absorption process takes place in the small intestine. Some disorders of the digestive system and some medicines, supplements, and drinks cause L-T4 malabsorption, resulting in failure of serum TSH to be normal. Only rarely liver cirrhosis is mentioned as causing L-T4 malabsorption. CASE REPORT In this study, we report increased requirement of daily doses of l-thyroxine in two patients with the atrophic variant of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and liver cirrhosis. In one patient, this increased requirement could have been contributed by the increased serum levels of the estrogen-dependent thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG), which is the major plasma carrier of thyroid hormones. In the other patient, we switched from tablet L-T4 to liquid L-T4 at the same daily dose. Normalization of TSH levels was achieved, but TSH increased again when she returned to tablet L-T4. CONCLUSION Liver cirrhosis can cause increased L-T4 requirements. In addition to impaired bile secretion, the mechanism could be increased serum TBG. A similar increased requirement of L-T4 is observed in other situations characterized by elevation of serum TBG. Because of better intestinal absorption, L-T4 oral liquid formulation is able to circumvent the increased need of L-T4 in these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women’s Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology, and Women’s Endocrine Health, University Hospital, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capodicasa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy
- *Correspondence: Giovanni Capodicasa,
| | - Sarah Perelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | | | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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Trimboli P, Virili C, Centanni M, Giovanella L. Thyroxine Treatment With Softgel Capsule Formulation: Usefulness in Hypothyroid Patients Without Malabsorption. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:118. [PMID: 29619010 PMCID: PMC5871661 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2018] [Accepted: 03/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Levothyroxine sodium (LT4) is the therapy of choice for hypothyroidism. In the last decade, new LT4 formulations, such as liquid and softgel capsules, became available. Even if some evidence has been reached in the efficacy of liquid LT4 in patients with suboptimal TSH on tablet LT4, the usefulness of softgel LT4 has been rarely studied. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of switching from tablet to softgel LT4 patients without increased need for LT4. TSH was used as proxy of LT4 bioavailability and effectiveness. METHODS During the period from April to August 2017, 19 patients on tablet LT4 treatment for hypothyroidism, mostly due to autoimmune thyroiditis, were enrolled. Subjects with causes of malabsorption or increased requirement of LT4 were previously excluded. Patients finally included were asked to switch from tablet to softgel LT4 formulation at unchanged dose and ingestion fashion (30 min before breakfast). TSH was measured with chemiluminescence immunoassays. RESULTS According to exclusion and inclusion criteria, 19 patients were finally selected. One of these had headache 4 days later and come back to tablet LT4, and 18 of them (16W/2M; mean age = 55 years; BMI 22.7 kg/m2) completed the study. They were treated with a median LT4 dose of 88 μg/day and showed a median TSH value of 3.33 mIU/L. The rate of cases with TSH ≤ 4.0 mIU/L was 61.1% (11/18 cases). When patients were re-evaluated after 3 months of softgel LT4, we observed that TSH reached levels under 4.0 mIU/L in 16/18 (88.9%) patients, TSH was lower in 11 cases, and in 6 out of 7 patients with pre-switch TSH values over the normal range. Overall, TSH values on softgel LT4 (median 1.90 mIU/L) was significantly lower from that observed during tablet LT4 (p = 0.0039). CONCLUSION These data show that hypothyroid patients with no proven malabsorption may have an improved TSH following 3 months from the switch from tablet to softgel LT4 preparation at unchanged dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierpaolo Trimboli
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Thyroid Centre, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
- *Correspondence: Pierpaolo Trimboli,
| | - Camilla Virili
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Marco Centanni
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Luca Giovanella
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Thyroid Centre, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
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Messina E, Ferraù F, Cannavò S. Oral mucositis induced by treatment with soft gel formulation of levothyroxine. Endocrine 2018; 59:226-227. [PMID: 28477303 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1312-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Erika Messina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Ferraù
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
| | - Salvatore Cannavò
- Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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Virili C, Giovanella L, Fallahi P, Antonelli A, Santaguida MG, Centanni M, Trimboli P. Levothyroxine Therapy: Changes of TSH Levels by Switching Patients from Tablet to Liquid Formulation. A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:10. [PMID: 29434573 PMCID: PMC5790785 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 01/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the last years, levothyroxine (LT4) has been commercialized also in liquid formulation, which is less sensitive to the factors known to reduce the absorption of tablet LT4. To date, there is no robust information that liquid LT4 can improve pharmacologic thyroid homeostasis of patients with reduced efficacy of tablet LT4. This analysis aimed at achieving solid evidence that switching thyroxine treatment from tablet to liquid preparation improves patients' TSH levels. METHODS The search was performed in PubMed/MEDLINE and Scopus database based on the terms "thyroid," "levothyroxine," and "liquid," and updated until September 25, 2017. Studies were included only if they described patients with suboptimal TSH on tablet LT4, subsequently switched to liquid LT4. RESULTS The literature search retrieved 462 articles and six were finally included. The pooled mean difference of TSH value between tablet and liquid LT4 was 4.23 mIU/L (95% CI from 3.69 to 4.77). Mild heterogeneity was found (I2 60%). Overall mean difference of TSH was significant (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION The present meta-analysis showed that patients with suboptimal TSH on tablet LT4 can have a significantly improved TSH by switching to liquid LT4 formulation at unchanged dose.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camilla Virili
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
- *Correspondence: Camilla Virili,
| | - Luca Giovanella
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Thyroid Centre, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
| | - Poupak Fallahi
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandro Antonelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Giulia Santaguida
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Marco Centanni
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Trimboli
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Thyroid Centre, Oncology Institute of Southern Switzerland, Bellinzona, Switzerland
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Benvenga S, Di Bari F. Intestinal absorption and buccal absorption of liquid levothyroxine. Endocrine 2017; 58:591-594. [PMID: 28271396 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1250-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women's Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology, and Women's Endocrine Health, University hospital, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Flavia Di Bari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Centanni M, Benvenga S, Sachmechi I. Diagnosis and management of treatment-refractory hypothyroidism: an expert consensus report. J Endocrinol Invest 2017; 40:1289-1301. [PMID: 28695483 PMCID: PMC5680379 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-017-0706-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
There is a frequently encountered subset of hypothyroid patients who are refractory to standard thyroid hormone replacement treatment and require unexpectedly high doses of levothyroxine. In addition to clinical situations where hypothyroid patients are non-compliant, or where there is the possibility of excipient-induced disease exacerbation (gluten/celiac disease), therapeutic failure may be due to impaired absorption of the administered drug. The common approach to managing patients with unusual thyroxine needs is to escalate the dose of levothyroxine until targeted TSH levels are achieved. This approach can increase the risk for prolonged exposure to supratherapeutic doses of levothyroxine, which increase the chances of adverse outcomes. Repeated adjustments of levothyroxine can also escalate the costs of treatment, as frequent office visits and laboratory tests are required to determine and maintain the desired dose. Clinicians should take a systematic approach to managing patients whom they suspect of having treatment-refractory hypothyroidism. This may include searching for, and adjusting, occult medical conditions and/or other factors that may affect the absorption of levothyroxine, before up-titrating the dose of traditional levothyroxine therapy. Depending on the underlying pathology, another approach that may be considered is to try alternative formulations of levothyroxine that are less susceptible to intolerance issues related to excipients, or, in some cases, to malabsorption. The early discovery of these factors via a thoughtful patient work-up may avoid unnecessary thyroid medication adjustments and their consequences for both patients and clinicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Centanni
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Medico-surgical Services and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - S. Benvenga
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular and Clinical Endocrinology and Women’s Endocrine Health, A.O.U. Policlinico G Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - I. Sachmechi
- Division of Endocrinology, Queens Hospital Center, Icahn School of Medicine, Jamaica, NY USA
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Ferrara R, Ientile V, Arcoraci V, Ferrajolo C, Piccinni C, Fontana A, Benvenga S, Trifirò G. Treatment pattern and frequency of serum TSH measurement in users of different levothyroxine formulations: a population-based study during the years 2009-2015. Endocrine 2017; 58:143-152. [PMID: 28155170 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1242-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2016] [Accepted: 01/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Several conditions can modify the intestinal absorption of levothyroxine tablets, with potential consequences on their therapeutic effect. Pre-dosed ampoules and oral drops have been recently made available to overcome this limitation. AIMS To describe the pattern of use of different formulations of levothyroxine in a general population of Southern Italy and to perform an exploratory analysis investigating the effect of switching from levothyroxine tablets to oral liquid formulations. METHODS Data were extracted from the Caserta Local Health Unit database. All patients receiving at least one levothyroxine prescription during the years 2009-2015 were identified. 1-year incidence of use of formulation-specific levothyroxine was calculated. Switchers between levothyroxine tablets and oral liquid formulations were identified and the frequency of thyroid-stimulating hormone measurement within 2 years prior and after the switch date was explored. RESULTS Overall, 56,354 levothyroxine users were included in the study. Of these, 55,147 patients received at least one prescription for tablets (97.9%), 1867 pre-dosed ampoules (3.3%) and 1550 oral drops (2.8%). The proportion of levothyroxine users receiving oral liquid formulations slightly increased over time. Patients switching from tablets to oral liquid formulations showed a statistically significant reduction in the number of thyroid-stimulating hormone measurements after switching from tablets, especially in presence of drugs interacting with levothyroxine potentially altering its absorption. CONCLUSIONS Use of levothyroxine oral liquid formulations is increasing over time even though their use is still limited in a general population of Southern Italy. Our exploratory analysis showed that the frequency of thyroid-stimulating hormone measurement was reduced in patients switching from levothyroxine tablet to new formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosarita Ferrara
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Academic Hospital G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Valentina Ientile
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Academic Hospital G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Vincenzo Arcoraci
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Academic Hospital G. Martino, Messina, Italy
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Carmen Ferrajolo
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Piccinni
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Academic Hospital G. Martino, Messina, Italy
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Andrea Fontana
- Unit of Biostatistics, IRCCS "Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza", San Giovanni Rotondo (FG), Italy
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Gianluca Trifirò
- Unit of Clinical Pharmacology, Academic Hospital G. Martino, Messina, Italy.
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morpho-functional Imaging, University of Messina, Messina, Italy.
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Benvenga S, Di Bari F, Vita R. Undertreated hypothyroidism due to calcium or iron supplementation corrected by oral liquid levothyroxine. Endocrine 2017; 56:138-145. [PMID: 28155174 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1244-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2016] [Accepted: 01/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to assess whether oral liquid levothyroxine would correct tablet levothyroxine malabsorption induced by calcium or iron, two sequestrants of levothyroxine. METHODS Nineteen adult hypothyroid patients with tablet levothyroxine malabsorption caused by calcium and/or iron supplements were switched from tablet to liquid levothyroxine at the same dose. Primary outcomes were: (1) significantly lower mean serum thyroid-stimulating hormone with the liquid compared with the tablet formulation, and (2) significantly greater rate of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone less than or equal to 4.12 or 2.5 mU/L.The mean follow-up was 25.2 ± 16.5 weeks. RESULTS TSH was lower with liquid levothyroxine compared with tablet levothyroxine (7.48 ± 5.8 vs. 1.95 ± 1.3 mU/L, P < 0.001), both in the calcium group (8.74 ± 7.2 vs. 2.15 ± 1.4, P < 0.001) and iron group (8.74 ± 7.2 vs. 1.68 ± 0.9, P < 0.001). Thyroid-stimulating hormone levels ≤4.12 mU/L in all patients, calcium group and iron group were more frequent post-switch (95, 87 and 100%) compared to pre-switch (26, 22 and 29%, P < 0.001), and so were thyroid-stimulating hormone levels ≤2.50 mU/L (66, 59 and 76% compared to 5, 9 and 0%, P < 0.001). The pattern held comparing the first liquid levothyroxine thyroid-stimulating hormone levels and the first tablet levothyroxine thyroid-stimulating hormone levels or the corresponding rates of thyroid-stimulating hormone levels below the target. CONCLUSIONS Liquid levothyroxine is resistant to the sequestration by calcium or iron. The high rate of thyroid-stimulating hormone normalization already at the first check (6-8 weeks) should avoid frequent adjustments in levothyroxine doses and assays of thyroid-stimulating hormone, with consequent financial savings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Viale Gazzi,, 98125, Messina, Italy
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women's Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Viale Gazzi,, 98125, Messina, Italy
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology, and Women's Endocrine Health, University Hospital, Policlinico Universitario G. Martino, Viale Gazzi,, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Flavia Di Bari
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Viale Gazzi,, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Roberto Vita
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Viale Gazzi,, 98125, Messina, Italy.
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Skelin M, Lucijanić T, Amidžić Klarić D, Rešić A, Bakula M, Liberati-Čizmek AM, Gharib H, Rahelić D. Factors Affecting Gastrointestinal Absorption of Levothyroxine: A Review. Clin Ther 2017; 39:378-403. [PMID: 28153426 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2017.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 01/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Levothyroxine (LT4) is a drug with a narrow therapeutic index, applied in small amounts (micrograms), which makes interactions in the absorption phase clinically significant. The main aim of this article was to review and present the latest information on factors that affect the gastrointestinal absorption of this drug. METHODS Relevant data were collected by using the MEDLINE, PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus databases with the key words levothyroxine and absorption. Searches were not limited to specific publication types, study designs, dates, or languages. The reports were highly variable in the amount of information provided regarding study design and methods. Because of the heterogeneity of studies, no statistical analysis was performed. FINDINGS Many gastrointestinal disorders, such as celiac disease, atrophic gastritis, lactose intolerance, and Helicobacter pylori infection, may impede the absorption of levothyroxine. During treatment of these disorders, it is necessary to monitor serum thyroid-stimulating hormone and free T4 values to reduce the risk of developing iatrogenic hyperthyroidism. Soybeans and coffee have the greatest impact on the reduction of absorption, whereas vitamin C has the ability to increase it. Conversely, the effect of dietary fiber on the absorption of LT4 is not yet fully understood; further research is needed on this topic. A decrease in the absorption of LT4 is established and clinically significant when administered concomitantly with cholestyramine, colesevelam, lanthanum, calcium carbonate, calcium citrate, calcium acetate, iron sulfate, ciprofloxacin, aluminum hydroxide, sevelamer, or proton pump inhibitors. This effect should be taken into consideration when prescribing these drugs concomitantly with LT4. The effects of Giardia lamblia infection and the influence of orlistat, polystyrene sulfonate, raloxifene, and simethicone on absorption of LT4 have been poorly documented. For bariatric surgery, sucralfate and H2-antagonist interactions are not well founded or contradictory evidence is available regarding their existence; additional research should be conducted. IMPLICATIONS The majority of the interactions are clinically significant. They are based on the LT4 adsorption on interfering substances in the digestive tract, as well as a consequently reduced amount of the drug available for absorption. These interactions can be avoided by separating the administration of LT4 and the interfering substance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marko Skelin
- Pharmacy Department, General Hospital Šibenik, Šibenik, Croatia
| | - Tomo Lucijanić
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinical Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Arnes Rešić
- Department of Paediatrics, Children's Hospital Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Miro Bakula
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, General Hospital "Sv. Duh," Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ana-Marija Liberati-Čizmek
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, General Hospital "Sv. Duh," Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Hossein Gharib
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota
| | - Dario Rahelić
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, Clinical Hospital Dubrava, Zagreb, Croatia
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Benvenga S, Capodicasa G, Perelli S. l-Thyroxine in an Oral Liquid or Softgel Formulation Ensures More Normal Serum Levels of Free T4 in Patients with Central Hypothyroidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:321. [PMID: 29209276 PMCID: PMC5701926 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT l-Thyroxine (l-T4) therapy of central hypothyroidism (CH) is guided by measurements of serum free thyroxine (FT4), which should be above the midnormal range value (MNRV). In some countries, novel formulations of oral l-T4 (liquid or softgel) are available further to the classic tablets. The intestinal absorption of either novel formulation is greater than tablets in patients with primary hypothyroidism. OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether new oral formulations of l-T4 could be considered optimal in patients with CH who do not reach the FT4 target using tablet l-T4. DESIGN Our observation of six patients with isolated CH and serum FT4 below MNRV under stable adequate doses of tablet l-T4 (median 1.51 μg/kg bw/day), prompted us to switch them to liquid (n = 4) or softgel (n = 3) l-T4 at the same dose, and verify whether FT4 increased above MNRV. A seventh patient with FT4 above MNRV was enrolled because she wanted a "more modern formulation." Postswitch FT4 was measured at least twice with the same kit as preswitch FT4. RESULTS In the first six patients, postswitch FT4 averaged 13.0 ± 1.6 pg/ml compared to 10.4 ± 1.8 preswitch FT4 (P = 0.00026), with 11/13 (85%) measurements above MNRV compared to 0/20. In the liquid or softgel l-T4 group, postswitch FT4 averaged 13.1 ± 1.6 vs. 10.6 ± 0.9 pg/ml preswitch (P = 0.0004) or 12.9 ± 2.1 vs. 10.3 ± 2.4 (P = 0.048), respectively. In the seventh patient (switched to liquid l-T4), averages were 18.3 vs. 15.2 pg/ml, and proportions 4/4 vs. 2/2. CONCLUSION In CH patients, oral liquid or softgel l-T4 administered at the same doses as tablet l-T4 ensures target serum FT4 levels above MNRV that tablet l-T4 may miss. In turn, this performance suggests the more favorable pharmacokinetics profile of either novel formulation compared with the tablet formulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescent and Women’s Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- Interdepartmental Program on Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology, and Women’s Endocrine Health, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Policlinico G. Martino, Messina, Italy
| | - Giovanni Capodicasa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Sarah Perelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
- *Correspondence: Sarah Perelli,
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Cellini M, Santaguida MG, Virili C, Capriello S, Brusca N, Gargano L, Centanni M. Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Autoimmune Gastritis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:92. [PMID: 28491051 PMCID: PMC5405068 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The term "thyrogastric syndrome" defines the association between autoimmune thyroid disease and chronic autoimmune gastritis (CAG), and it was first described in the early 1960s. More recently, this association has been included in polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type IIIb, in which autoimmune thyroiditis represents the pivotal disorder. Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) is the most frequent autoimmune disease, and it has been reported to be associated with gastric disorders in 10-40% of patients while about 40% of patients with autoimmune gastritis also present HT. Some intriguing similarities have been described about the pathogenic mechanism of these two disorders, involving a complex interaction among genetic, embryological, immunologic, and environmental factors. CAG is characterized by a partial or total disappearance of parietal cells implying the impairment of both hydrochloric acid and intrinsic factor production. The clinical outcome of this gastric damage is the occurrence of a hypochlorhydric-dependent iron-deficient anemia, followed by pernicious anemia concomitant with the progression to a severe gastric atrophy. Malabsorption of levothyroxine may occur as well. We have briefly summarized in this minireview the most recent achievements on this peculiar association of diseases that, in the last years, have been increasingly diagnosed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Cellini
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Maria Giulia Santaguida
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Camilla Virili
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Silvia Capriello
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Nunzia Brusca
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Lucilla Gargano
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Marco Centanni
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
- *Correspondence: Marco Centanni,
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Lobasso A, Nappi L, Barbieri L, Peirce C, Ippolito S, Arpaia D, Rossi FW, de Paulis A, Biondi B. Severe Hypothyroidism due to the Loss of Therapeutic Efficacy of l-Thyroxine in a Patient with Esophageal Complication Associated with Systemic Sclerosis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:241. [PMID: 28979239 PMCID: PMC5611405 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Thyroid function abnormalities and thyroid autoantibodies have been frequently described in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases as systemic sclerosis (SSc). Serum TSH levels are higher in SSc patients with more severe skin diseases and a worse modified Rodnan skin score. Asymptomatic esophageal involvement due to SSc has never been described as a cause of severe hypothyroidism due to l-thyroxine (l-T4) malabsorption in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT) and SSc. CASE REPORT Here, we report a case of a 56-year-old female affected by both SSc and HT who developed severe hypothyroidism due to the loss of therapeutic efficacy of l-T4. Therapeutic failure resulted from the altered l-T4 absorption because of SSc esophageal complications. Clinical findings improved after the administration of oral liquid l-T4. Thyroid function completely normalized with a full clinical recovery, the disappearance of the pericardial effusion and the improvement of the pulmonary pressure. CONCLUSION A recognition of a poor absorption is crucial in patients with hypothyroidism and SSc to reduce the risk of the subsequent adverse events. This case suggests the importance of clinical and laboratory surveillance in patients with SSc and HT because the systemic complications of these dysfunctions may worsen the prognosis of hypothyroid SSc/HT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Lobasso
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Liliana Nappi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Letizia Barbieri
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Carmela Peirce
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Serena Ippolito
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Debora Arpaia
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Francesca Wanda Rossi
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Amato de Paulis
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, Center for Basic and Clinical Immunology Research (CISI), University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Bernadette Biondi
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Bernadette Biondi, ,
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49
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Hennessey JV. The emergence of levothyroxine as a treatment for hypothyroidism. Endocrine 2017; 55:6-18. [PMID: 27981511 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-016-1199-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the historical refinements, understanding of physiology and clinical outcomes observed with thyroid hormone replacement strategies. METHODS A Medline search was initiated using the search terms, levothyroxine, thyroid hormone history, levothyroxine mono therapy, thyroid hormone replacement, combination LT4 therapy, levothyroxine Bioequivalence. Pertinent articles of interest were identified by title and where available abstract for further review. Additional references were identified in the course of review of the literature identified. RESULTS Physicians have intervened in cases of thyroid dysfunction for more than two millennia. Ingestion of animal thyroid derived preparations has been long described but only scientifically documented for the last 130 years. Refinements in hormone preparation, pharmaceutical production and regulation continue to this day. The literature provides documentation of physiologic, pathologic and clinical outcomes which have been reported and continuously updated. Recommendations for effective and safe use of these hormones for reversal of patho-physiology associated with hypothyroidism and the relief of symptoms of hypothyroidism has documented a progressive refinement in our understanding of thyroid hormone use. Studies of thyroid hormone metabolism, action and pharmacokinetics have allowed evermore focused recommendations for use in clinical practice. Levothyroxine mono-therapy has emerged as the therapy of choice of all recent major guidelines. CONCLUSIONS The evolution of thyroid hormone therapies has been significant over an extended period of time. Thyroid hormone replacement is very useful in the treatment of those with hypothyroidism. All of the most recent guidelines of major endocrine societies recommend levothyroxine mono-therapy for first line use in hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- James V Hennessey
- Harvard Medical School, Division of Endocrinology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, 330 Brookline Ave., Gryzmish 619, Boston, 02215, MA, USA.
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50
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Brusca N, Virili C, Cellini M, Capriello S, Gargano L, Salvatori R, Centanni M, Santaguida MG. Early detection of biochemically occult autonomous thyroid nodules. Eur J Endocrinol 2016; 175:615-622. [PMID: 27647872 DOI: 10.1530/eje-16-0568] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2016] [Revised: 09/09/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Autonomously functioning thyroid areas may be associated with subclinical or overt hyperthyroidism, but may exist even in the presence of normal TSH. This study was aimed at comparing the rate of autonomously functioning areas and their cardiac sequelae in patients with nodular goitre studied with the usual and a novel approach. DESIGN AND METHODS In total 490 adult outpatients with thyroid nodular goitre, living in a mild iodine-deficient area, were selected in our referral centre for thyroid diseases from 2009 to 2014 on the basis of a suspicion of thyroid functional autonomy. They were divided in three groups according to a non-conventional approach (excessive response to thyroxine treatment: group 1) or conventional approach (low/normal TSH with clinical suspicion or low TSH: groups 2 and 3). All patients of the study with the suspicion of thyroid functional autonomy underwent thyroid scan with radioactive iodine (I131) uptake (RAIU). RESULTS The percentage of confirmed thyroid functional autonomy was 319/490, being significantly higher in group 3 than in groups 1 and 2 (81.5 vs 64.7 vs 52.6%; chi-square P < 0.0001). However, the diagnosis with non-conventional approach was made at a significant earlier age (P < 0.0001). Cardiac arrhythmias as well as atrial fibrillation were similarly detected by conventional and non-conventional approaches (chi-square test: P = 0.2537; P = 0.8425). CONCLUSIONS The hyper-responsiveness to thyroxine treatment should induce the suspicion of thyroid functional autonomy at an early stage, allowing to detect autonomous functioning areas in apparently euthyroid patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Brusca
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies'Sapienza' University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - C Virili
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies'Sapienza' University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - M Cellini
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies'Sapienza' University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - S Capriello
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies'Sapienza' University of Rome, Latina, Italy
| | - L Gargano
- Endocrinology UnitAUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
| | - R Salvatori
- Department of Nuclear MedicineAUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
| | - M Centanni
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies'Sapienza' University of Rome, Latina, Italy
- Endocrinology UnitAUSL Latina, Latina, Italy
| | - M G Santaguida
- Department of Medico-Surgical Sciences and Biotechnologies'Sapienza' University of Rome, Latina, Italy
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